Gardeners looking to remove weeds without harsh chemicals can turn to common household items, experts say. Vinegar, baking soda, and even vodka are among the natural remedies recommended for tackling unwanted plants.
Martine Le Gassick, creative director at Stark & Greensmith, suggests vinegar for surface weeds. 'It's just a simple quick trick to get rid of any small weeds you can see,' she said, noting it does not reach the roots. Tom Hilton of National Greenhouse advises a mixture of five per cent acetic acid vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Other natural weed killers include corn gluten meal, vodka, and boiling water. Hilton recommends spreading corn gluten meal around plants after they have taken hold. For sun-exposed weeds, a mix of two cups water, one ounce vodka, and dish soap can dry them out, but care is needed to avoid harming other plants.
Baking soda is effective on patios and stoned areas, according to Le Gassick, though it can kill nearby flowers. Boiling water is another cheap method: pour small amounts over weeds and keep the area clear until cool.
Household products can also fertilise plants. Hilton notes that cola, with its low pH, suits acid-loving plants like foxgloves, azaleas, and hydrangeas. Pour a little flat cola around the base, avoiding the plant itself.
