Weeds in gravel driveways and patios are a gardener’s worst nightmare. From grassy varieties like henbit and purslane to the more persistent broadleaf and dandelions, these resilient invaders can quickly take over if left unchecked. But removing weeds is not just about pulling them out of the ground; it’s about ensuring they don’t make a return. And while many gardeners may reach for white vinegar as a quick fix, there’s a far more effective – and permanent – solution that you probably already have in your kitchen.
As Chelsey, a gardening expert at Good Grow, pointed out: “Vinegar may well kill some small weeds, but if the goal is to get rid of them forever, then vinegar will not work.” She explained that while vinegar can burn away the visible part of the weed, it doesn’t deal with the roots, which remain intact and allow the weed to grow back.
So, when it comes to finding the best solution to eradicate weeds, according to Chelsey, rock salt is “the way to go.”
While common table salt can be used as a weed killer, when you’re dealing with a heavily weeded gravel driveway, rock salt is the key to permanent removal.
“It’s the fastest way to kill weeds on your drive forever,” the expert added.
The gardening experts at Joe’s Lawn Care agree with this approach, describing rock salt as “a super-effective and totally natural weed killer that is ace at clearing a gravel driveway.”
All it takes is a simple sprinkling of rock salt around any visible weeds, and you’ll soon see the magic happen.
“Watch as the salt kills the weeds in just a matter of days,” they said, adding that the results are “almost unbelievable.”
The strongest appeal of rock salt lies in its long-term effectiveness, as it not only kills the weeds you see but also prevents new growth by gradually seeping into the soil.
“The salt will gradually seep into the ground where it was sprinkled, preventing any weeds (or plants) from being able to grow there for a while,” the specialist explained.
However, it’s important to be cautious with the application, as the salt can also prevent desirable plants from growing in the treated area.