How to permanently remove weeds from your patio or garden

Pro tip: Pull weeds when the soil is moist, as it makes the process easier and helps reduce the chance of breaking the roots.

5. Salt (Use Cautiously)

Salt can be used as a natural herbicide to kill weeds, but it should be used with caution. Excess salt can alter the soil’s pH, making it less suitable for plants. This method is best for non-plant areas like driveways or patios, where you don’t plan to grow anything else.

How to do it:

• Sprinkle table salt directly onto the weeds.
• Alternatively, mix salt with water (1 part salt to 2 parts water) and apply to the weeds using a spray bottle.
• The salt dehydrates the plant, causing it to die.

Pro tip: Avoid using too much salt, as it can harm the surrounding soil and nearby plants.

6. Smothering with Cardboard or Newspaper

Smothering is an effective way to block sunlight and suffocate weeds, preventing them from growing. This method is great for garden beds and larger patches of weeds.

How to do it:

• Lay down cardboard or several layers of newspapers over the weeded area. Ensure the material overlaps so no light can reach the weeds.
• Water the cardboard or newspaper to help it stay in place.
• Cover it with a layer of mulch to improve the look of your garden and add more weed-blocking power.

Pro tip: This method may take several weeks, so be patient and monitor the area for any regrowth.

7. Use a Weed Torch

If you’re dealing with larger areas or tougher weeds, a weed torch can be a highly effective option. This tool uses intense heat to burn the weeds, causing them to die.

How to do it:

• Hold the weed torch over the weeds for a few seconds until you see the plant wilt.
• Be careful with this method, especially on windy days, as you could accidentally start a fire. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.

Pro tip: Use this method for driveways, patios, or gravel areas to eliminate weeds without disturbing nearby plants.

Prevention Tips:

Once you’ve successfully removed the weeds, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from coming back:

• Regular maintenance: Check your garden regularly for new weeds and pull them early when they’re small.
• Landscape fabric: Lay landscape fabric under mulch to provide a barrier against weeds.
• Weed barriers: Use commercial or homemade weed barriers for high-risk areas like garden pathways and patios.
• Proper spacing: Ensure your plants are spaced adequately so that they can crowd out potential weeds and reduce the available space for weeds to grow.

Conclusion

While weeds may seem like a never-ending problem, with the right methods, you can permanently remove them from your patio or garden and keep them at bay for good. From natural remedies like boiling water and vinegar to preventative measures like mulching and smothering, there’s a solution for every gardener.

The best part is that these methods are eco-friendly and don’t require harmful chemicals, making them safe for both your plants and the environment. So, take action today and enjoy a beautiful, weed-free garden!