Weeds often pop up between patio slabs or in driveway cracks, exactly where they are unwanted. While weedkiller is an easy purchase, a kitchen staple may already do the job: vodka. The alcohol can dry out weed leaves, leaving the plant struggling, according to DIY expert Bill Jarvis from Premium Paints.
A cheap and unusual trick
Jarvis said: "Vodka probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think about getting rid of weeds. But the alcohol can dry the leaves out, which can leave the weed looking pretty sorry for itself."
He added: "You obviously don't want to go around pouring vodka all over the garden, but if you've got a few stubborn weeds coming through paving or popping up in awkward places, it's a cheap and unusual trick you could try."
"It is also a handy way to use something you might already have at home, rather than going out and buying another product just to deal with a few weeds."
How to use vodka to tackle weeds
Start by mixing vodka with water and adding a small amount of washing-up liquid, then put the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the leaves of the unwanted weeds thoroughly, ideally on a dry, sunny day, so the mixture has time to work. After it has worked, clear the dead weeds away.
Be careful where you spray the mixture, avoiding any flowers, grass, or other plants you want to keep. A cheap bottle of own-brand vodka can cost as little as £7 at some supermarkets, and some will be left over for a drink after the weedkilling task.
