Organic Herbicide for Grass

Achieving and maintaining a healthy lawn sometimes requires the application of an herbicide.

An herbicide may be a necessary element for maintaining a healthy green lawn. Chemical herbicides, however, may endanger the health of pets, people and the environment, so many gardeners choose organic an herbicide instead.

Considerations

The health hazards of chemical herbicides are well-documented. The Connecticut Department of Public Health has published a fact sheet indicating that both short-term and long-term exposure to herbicides may lead to illnesses that range from nausea and skin rash to cancer and immunological disorders. Organic herbicides are much safer.

Organic Herbicide and Fertilizer

Organic mulch works as an effective organic herbicide by blocking light to the weeds. In addition, the ingredients in organic mulch, which include bark, leaves, and grass clippings, help to enrich the soil as they break down and decompose.

Vinegar

Vinegar is the most popular natural herbicide. Household vinegar, available in 5 percent strength, is effective on younger leaves, but higher concentrations are needed for older weeds. Garden centers and plant supply stores sell vinegar-based herbicides at a much higher strength.

References

• USDA Agricultural Research Service: Spray Weeds with Vinegar?
• Go Organic Gardening: Organic Pesticides Guide
• Organic Gardening: Weed Control, the Organic Way

Resources

• CT: Connecticut Department of Public Health: Safe Application of Pesticides and Herbicides
• Vegetable Gardening Gnomes: Effective Organic Weed Killer Recipes That Are Eco Friendly