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Introduction
Chemical herbicides can be effective, but they come with environmental and health concerns. If you're looking for a more eco-friendly and budget-conscious alternative, natural weed killers made with household ingredients like baking soda and vinegar can do the trick. These ingredients disrupt plant growth and are especially useful for targeting weeds in driveways, sidewalks, and garden borders. Here's how to make your own safe and simple weed killer at home.
Ingredients
To create a basic natural weed killer, you’ll need:
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1 cup of white distilled vinegar (5% acidity)
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1 tablespoon of baking soda
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1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap (optional, but helps with adhesion)
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A spray bottle or watering can
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Funnel (for easier mixing)
Preparation
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Mix the vinegar and dish soap: In a container or directly in a spray bottle, combine the vinegar and dish soap. The dish soap helps break down the weed's protective surface, allowing the solution to penetrate more effectively.
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Add the baking soda: Slowly add the baking soda. Be careful—it will fizz upon contact with vinegar, so do this over a sink or outside to avoid messes.
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Shake gently: Once the fizzing subsides, secure the lid and gently shake the mixture to combine.
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Apply directly to weeds: Spray or pour the solution directly onto the leaves and base of the weeds during a sunny day. Avoid applying on desired plants, as this mixture is non-selective and may damage any greenery it touches.
Serving and Storage Tips
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When to apply: Midday on a dry, sunny day is ideal. The sun intensifies the weed-killing effect.
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Storage: Since the mixture may lose potency over time, it’s best used fresh. However, you can store it in a sealed container for up to a week in a cool, dry place.
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Application frequency: Reapply after a few days if the weeds persist. Young weeds respond better than older, well-established ones.
Variant
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