Five gardening and landscaping experts have independently recommended the same cheap, natural solution for tackling driveway and patio weeds this summer: white vinegar mixed with a little washing-up liquid. The remedy, which costs pennies and is likely already in your kitchen cupboard, can kill weeds within hours on a hot, sunny day.
How to apply the vinegar weed killer
Luke Newnes, garden expert at Hillarys, advises starting by pulling out visible weeds by the root, especially dandelions and plantain, as leftover roots can regrow stronger. Then mix white vinegar with a small amount of washing-up liquid and water, and spray directly onto the weeds on a dry, sunny day. “The sun helps it work faster, and you’ll usually see them wilt within hours,” he said.
Andy McLaughlin, sales and operations director at RF Paving, recommends using vinegar with an acetic acid content between 5% and 20% mixed with washing-up liquid to help the solution adhere to the roots. “Simply spritz directly onto the weeds, making sure not to get any solution on any plants nearby, as the vinegar could cause them to deteriorate,” he said. For best results, repeat the treatment every two weeks.
Alternative natural methods: boiling water and salt
For those without vinegar, boiling water poured directly onto weeds can kill them on contact. However, Jessica Mercer, horticulturist at Plant Addicts, notes that boiling water may not destroy deep taproots, so repeated applications may be needed. “Pour slowly so it soaks the base, and plan to repeat it on anything with a deep taproot,” she said.
Andy McLaughlin also suggests a salt solution for stubborn weeds: dilute one part table salt with two to three parts water. The salt draws moisture out of the weeds, causing them to wilt and die. However, he warns that excessive salt can harm surrounding soil and, with repeated use on natural stone, can cause discolouration and erosion.
Expert tips for preventing weed regrowth
Luke Newnes emphasises that regular sweeping of driveways and patios prevents seeds, debris and moisture from settling. “Weeds love compacted dirt and damp joints, so keeping the surface clear gives them fewer places to anchor themselves,” he said. For block paving, topping up kiln-dried sand between the bricks blocks light and prevents weed growth. “Weeds hate tight spaces, and fresh sand helps block the light that encourages new growth,” he added.
Ward Dilmore, founder and head landscape designer at Petrus Landscaping, notes that vinegar and other natural weed killers work best in hot, sunny weather. “Cold weather is less stressful on plants and can help weeds survive a dose of natural weed killer application,” he said. He also advises caution with vinegar-salt mixes, as salt is toxic to plants and persists in soil.
Liam Sharkey, home expert at HomeServe, recommends boiling water as a quick fix that is free, easy, and safe around pets and children. White vinegar at cleaning strength is another good option, especially when applied on a sunny day.
