Weeds can become a persistent nuisance during summer, but a common kitchen item—white vinegar—can make them wilt in just a few hours, according to gardening expert Ifzaal, known as Nature with Ifzaal on TikTok.
Natural Weed Killer Method
In a viral video from April, Ifzaal demonstrated how to use white vinegar as a safer, cheaper alternative to chemical weed killers. He explained that as temperatures rise, weeds sprout through lawns and patio gaps, but shop-bought products often contain harsh chemicals unsafe for children and pets.
Ifzaal advised pouring white vinegar into a spray bottle and lightly coating the weeds. Alternatively, the vinegar can be applied directly from the bottle. He stated: “You’ll notice the effects within just a few hours, and within three days, the weeds will look burnt to a crisp.”
Best Results on Hot Days
The expert emphasized that the method works fastest on hot, sunny days. However, he warned: “Do not use this on your lawn because it will also damage your grass.” The acetic acid in vinegar acts as a herbicide, breaking down weed cell walls and causing dehydration.
According to Better Homes & Gardens, vinegar solutions are most effective on smaller weeds. Gardeners’ World noted that vinegar alone may not provide long-term control and suggested mixing it with baking soda, salt, or lemon juice for tougher weeds. They described it as “a cheap option, but it doesn't smell pleasant.”
Considerations and Precautions
Gardening Know How explained that salt can enhance the mixture by dehydrating plants and disrupting water balance, but it should be used sparingly to avoid soil damage. Better Homes & Gardens cautioned that salt-based solutions can accumulate in soil, hindering future plant growth.
Ifzaal’s method offers a quick, natural solution for patios and paved areas, but gardeners should avoid overuse on soil to prevent long-term harm.
