Weeds have the uncanny ability to pop up where they’re least wanted, be it on your immaculate lawn, amidst your lovingly tended flower beds, or even on patios and driveways. Weeds are notoriously difficult to remove and tend to spread quickly because they are designed for survival and rapid growth.
Unlike many garden plants that take time to mature, weeds often grow much faster, disperse their seeds efficiently, have tough and persistent root systems, and can thrive even in poor soil. Many are resistant to drought, pests, and even some herbicides, making them even more challenging to control. For those with a passion for gardening, dealing with these pesky plants doesn’t necessarily involve harsh chemicals.
Gardening guru Hannah Rowson from J. Parker’s has revealed a couple of simple, eco-friendly methods to combat them. She suggested: “You can kill off weeds by pouring boiled water from your kettle over them.
“But watch out not to splash your toes of course. The hot water will shock the plant, killing weeds within a day or two.”
This approach is particularly effective for weeds on hard surfaces but should be used with care around lawns and flower beds, as boiling water can indiscriminately destroy any plant life it touches.
For those wary of using boiling water, Hannah recommends white vinegar as a gentler option, according to the Express. She clarifies: “Vinegar is full of acetic acid, which is a natural bacteria killer. It’s a great way of killing back any unwanted weeds that aren’t surrounded by wanted plants.
“Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spritz them fully, getting as close to the roots as you can. Regular vinegar also does the trick, helping you to get rid of weeds permanently.
“You can also try using lemon juice, as it contains citric acid which can cause weeds to shrivel.
“Like any plant, weeds can be annual or perennial. Annual weeds are easier to get rid of, as they last just one year or season. They might spring up quickly, but they can be removed just as quickly too.
“Perennial weeds are trickier, as they’ll return year after year. They have deeper roots than their annual counterparts and if they’re not removed, they’ll just come back to mock you.”
Common weeds to watch out for are dandelions, couch grass, chickweed, and the prickly milk thistle.
