Gardeners are being encouraged to abandon chemical weed killers in favour of a natural alternative that uses boiling water and a pinch of salt. The method, promoted by eco-friendly cleaning influencer Nancy Birtwhistle, promises to eliminate patio weeds within three days, with results lasting for the rest of the season.
In a video shared on Instagram, Birtwhistle demonstrated the technique on dandelions growing between paving blocks. She poured boiling water directly onto the weeds, then sprinkled a small amount of salt over them. After three days, the weeds were completely dead and showed no signs of regrowth.
Salt works by dehydrating the plant cells and disrupting their water balance, making it an effective natural herbicide. When combined with hot water, the salt is more easily absorbed by the weeds. Birtwhistle urged gardeners to avoid commercial path and spot weed killers, describing them as 'toxic and costly'.
Followers of the influencer praised the method, with one calling it 'life-changing'. Another user reported that after using brown rock salt on a gravel drive, weeds 'disappeared overnight'. Some found success using boiling water alone, without salt.
Experts advise caution when using salt near desired plants, as it can damage them if applied excessively. However, for patios, driveways, and other hard surfaces, the method offers a cheap and safe alternative to chemical sprays.
