Will Vinegar & Water Kill Weeds?

The dandelion is a common weed found in many gardens.

Weeds are the natural enemy of the gardener, constantly stealing water and sunlight from the garden and infringing upon its beauty. Getting rid of weeds has been the job of retail weed killers, but according to the National Coalition for Pesticide Free Lawns, the majority of pesticides are linked to cancer, birth defects, liver and kidney damage, and other serious illnesses in humans and pets. Vinegar and water make a safe, effective way to kill weeds in your garden.

Weeds

A weed is any plant that does not belong in your garden. Some common types of weeds are the dandelion, crabgrass, Bermuda grass and mallow. The keys to controlling or getting rid of the weeds in your garden are identifying the types of weeds and recognizing how to control them.

Vinegar

Vinegar is a natural weed killer due to its acetic acid content. Household vinegar is a five percent concentration, which will kill the weeds. Stronger concentrations of vinegar are available at your local retail store, but are not necessary. Put the vinegar directly onto the weeds using a spray bottle or paintbrush. Vinegar should not touch any other plants or flowers in your garden because it will kill them, as well. The best time to apply vinegar to weeds is in the early fall before the seeds have time to set in the ground. Be sure to apply the vinegar on a sunny day because the rain will wash away vinegar.

Boiling Water

Boiling water is a great way to kill weeds and is also inexpensive. It is a simple process of pouring boiling water onto the crown of the weed. For your safety, be sure to wear pot holders and pour the water slowly near the weeds to avoid any splashing.

References

• Yahoo.com: Boiling Water
• Ergonica.com: Weed Science
• Purdue.edu: Vinegar and Weeds