A journalist tested two natural weed-killing methods on her patio: a homemade spray made from kitchen ingredients and boiling water. Both worked, but one proved more effective overall.
Homemade Weed Killer Test
In a spray bottle, the journalist mixed 500ml of white vinegar, two tablespoons of salt, and two tablespoons of washing-up liquid. Since the ingredients were already in her kitchen cupboard, the method cost nothing.
She applied the solution generously to several areas of her patio and left them until the following day. When she checked, the weeds had completely shrivelled and died, making them easier to remove than when alive.
The homemade weed killer offered an economical and chemical-free solution. However, it should be used on a dry, sunny day to avoid rainfall, and it is best suited for hard patio surfaces, as it can make soil acidic.
Boiling Water Test
Next, she tried boiling water, filling her kettle to the top and carefully pouring it over other patio weeds. Directing the scalding water proved challenging, so she stepped back while pouring.
The weeds started to shrivel almost immediately, and by the next day they looked brown and withered. The boiling water technique delivered results, but it required several trips back inside to re-boil the kettle for larger spaces.
The Verdict
Both methods impressed the journalist, but she preferred the homemade weed killer. It was easier to target the spray precisely onto the weeds without hot water splashing across the patio.
The homemade solution also proved slightly more effective overall, with the weeds looking considerably more withered. The bottle stretches far—she tackled her entire patio and still had plenty left over.
How to Make Homemade Weed Killer
Ingredients: 500ml white vinegar (45p for a litre at Sainsbury's), two tablespoons of salt (75p for a 750g bottle at Sainsbury's), and two teaspoons of washing-up liquid (62p for a 500ml bottle at Asda).
Method: Mix the white vinegar and salt in a spray bottle or jug, stirring until the salt dissolves. Add the washing-up liquid and combine well. If using a jug, transfer the mixture to a spray bottle. Remove any insects from the weed before treatment. Spray the mixture directly onto the weed's leaves, ensuring they are completely saturated. For bigger weeds, pour some liquid onto the plant while coating the leaves. The weeds will begin to droop within a few hours, and after 24 hours they should have died off entirely.
