Weeds between patio slabs and driveway cracks can be a constant source of concern for gardeners, popping up out of nowhere and spoiling even the tidiest of gardens. Many resort to chemical weedkillers, but concerns about pets, the environment and nearby plants can make these less appealing.
Luckily, green-fingered homeowners have discovered a natural and surprisingly simple way to banish weeds for good — and it doesn’t involve any harsh sprays or expensive treatments. Even better, it uses something you’ve probably already got in your kitchen. On a Facebook group for fans of cleaning and gardening guru Mrs Hinch, user Julie Lucas asked for advice on tackling stubborn weeds.
The response was overwhelming, with dozens of people sharing their go-to tricks, and one method stood out above the rest for its simplicity.
Gill Cardwell Jones explained: “Boil your kettle and while it’s still bubbling, pour over the weeds and they’ll never come back. My gardener told me that and it works great. Obviously, don’t do it to weeds on your grass though.”
Victoria Jewell echoed the sentiment, writing: “I just boil the kettle and pour it on. Kills them straight away!”
Science backs them up, as boiling water actually destroys the plant’s root tissue almost instantly, shocking it into rapid decline. Within a day or two, most weeds will be completely gone.
This method works best on paths, patios and driveways where there’s no risk of damaging wanted plants.
Gardeners should be cautious not to use it on lawns or flower beds, where the intense heat can harm grass or delicate blooms.
For even longer-lasting results, some users recommend combining the boiling water with common kitchen ingredients.
Facebook user Natalie Dawson suggested adding “boiling water and salt” for a more thorough kill, while Irene Ducros swears by pure salt: “Salt – just salt. It does the job. I’ve been using it for years now and nothing else seems to work.”
Other Mrs Hinch fans recommended mixing white vinegar and washing-up liquid into the solution, with Jan Mchugh suggesting: “Mixture of salt, washing up liquid and white vinegar.”
Those after even stronger results might try pure vinegar, but should take care around plants.
“I was told pure vinegar they get in the chippies and water it down,” explained Jacqui Spelman. “I used it and it’s brilliant. Does the job and quickly. Just don’t get it on the grass as it burns it.”
For anyone looking to avoid liquids altogether, a weed burner could be the answer. As Paula Forester put it: “I use a weed burner. It kills right down to the root.”
