Summer is a time when most of us want to relax outdoors on a lounge chair with a drink in hand, but this season often brings rapid weed growth that can quickly overwhelm a garden. Weeds are a big problem in summertime, as the warm temperatures provide the ideal growing conditions, causing them to spread rapidly, even if you removed them just a few weeks earlier.
These pesky plants are always a nuisance, but they are especially frustrating in gravel, patios, or driveways, where the heat from the stone creates a mini greenhouse effect that speeds up their growth. However, you do not need to spend lots of money on products filled with harsh chemicals as the gardening experts at William James & Co have shared all you need is a little baking soda and boiling hot water.
The experts said: “Baking soda for killing weeds is a popular method due to it being highly alkaline and its high salt content, making it effective at dehydrating and killing weeds.”
The expert added: “Boiling water destroys weeds’ cell structures by causing thermal shock. For larger weeds, it may require a few applications, but this is definitely a cheap and effective method.”
Removing weeds buried in stone can be a challenge as it is very difficult to reach the root, which means it will simply grow back in a few weeks if you are not using the right product.
However, baking soda alters the pH of the environment of the weed it is growing, which stops the plant from being able to photosynthesise or absorb any nutrients.
Boiling water can get into any nook or cranny to kill the entire plant by scalding it which stops it growing back in the future.
This is a natural yet very effective way to remove any weeds growing in unexpected areas of your garden using items you likely already have in your kitchen.
How to naturally get rid of weeds
Before you begin, wait until it is a sunny and dry day to kill weeds as any rain or windy weather can cool down the boiling water which will make it less effective.
Then, all you need to do is sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the weeds, and then boil the kettle.
Carefully carry the kettle outside and pour it directly onto the weed. Be careful not to splash any of the water as it will harm any plants or grass nearby.
If there are any weeds in gravel or cracks then pour some extra baking soda on top of the area after pouring the boiling water as it will also help prevent new growth.
If there are any weeds growing on your lawn or flowerbeds then do not use this method and instead try mulching them with grass clippings as it is a better way to smoother them without damaging your garden.
For larger weeds, you may need to pour more boiling water on the area after one day to ensure the roots are completely killed, but this method can help prevent weeds from sprouting in stonework.
This quick and simple method takes just minutes and helps stop weeds from growing, so you can spend less time on garden chores and more time enjoying your summer.
