11 hours Ago By Angela Patrone
Weeds are not just unsightly interruptions to otherwise neat gardens , often cropping up where they’re least wanted, such as between paving stones, cracking through driveways, or taking centre stage in the patio area. Opting for chemical weed killers might seem like a quick solution, yet gardeners should weigh the potential risks. But worry not, as eco-savvy gardeners have some tricks ready for use, including simply dousing weeds with boiling water.
On gardening pages dedicated to the tips shared by fans of cleaning sensation Mrs Hinch , Julie Lucas requested help on a Facebook group: “Any ideas for killing weeds on patio slabs, please?” Julie’s question ignited a spirited exchange of advice, but it was the boiling water suggestion that surged in popularity. Responding to the post, Gill Cardwell Jones said: “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 noted: “I just boil the kettle and pour it on. Kills them straight away!” Many echoed this sentiment, like Jean Clough and Kim Hudspeth, who agreed with those promoting the “boiling water” technique.
Elsewhere in the conversation, Natalie Dawson vouched for a mix of “boiling water and salt” as an effective weed killer. Boiling water proves to be a swift and potent method for eliminating weeds, literally nipping them in the bud by destroying their root tissue, which causes them to wither away within 24 to 48 hours. It’s an especially effective solution for tackling pesky growth between patio stones or along driveways.
Yet, garden enthusiasts should steer clear of this method in areas where they want to maintain healthy grass or flowerbeds, as boiling water can damage plants you’d prefer to keep. For greener gardening tips, Mrs Hinch 's avid fans also recommend using salt, white vinegar or a specialised weed burner. Fan Irene Ducros swears by plain old table salt, she said: “Salt - just salt.
It does the job. I’ve been using it for years now, and nothing else seems to work.” Jan McHugh shared her weed-killing recipe : “Mixture of salt, washing up liquid and white vinegar.
” Ally East shared her experience: “I tried the salt and washing up water method and it works, but have now decided that I like the effect of moss in amongst my slabs. Gives it a cottage feel, like the paving you see in gardens of listed buildings. I just pull up the weeds.
” Lastly, Paula Forester sang praises for a more tech-forward approach: “I use a weed burner. It kills right down to the root.”.
