If there’s one thing I’d love to encourage more people to consider ditching, it would be spraying toxic weed killer in their yards (and public parks too). Yes, weed sprays make weed control quick and easy, and it may help us maintain lovely and neat-looking gardens, but is that really worth the health and environmental impact?
Glyphosate is a common ingredient in weed killers like Roundup. It currently has the highest global production volume of all herbicides – the largest use worldwide is in agriculture which has increased sharply since the development of crops that have been genetically modified to make them resistant to glyphosate. (source)
In 2015, glyphosate was classified as probably carcinogenic to humans (according to the World Health Organisation – read more here).
Children and pets rolling around in grass, contaminated shoes, run-off down gutters after rain and watering – we’re exposed almost daily and it just doesn’t sit right with me.
So how do we deal with weeds?
I do think the best way to tackle weeds is to pull them out by the roots. But this isn’t always the easiest way, especially when you have a big garden! So, when pulling them out by hand isn’t a viable option for you, try my weed spray! You will need to be patient, especially if you’re used to mainstream weed killers, as multiple applications may be needed and it can take time, but it does work well.
This recipe works best on hot and sunny days, so the leaves are essentially frying in the sun. And if all else fails, perhaps learn to love your weeds; after all, they’re just plants that don’t fit in.
Natural Weed Spray
Makes: 250 ml Prep time: < 5 min.
Ingredients
- 1 cup | 250 ml white vinegar
- 2 tbsp fine salt
- 1 tbsp liquid castile soap
- 10 drops of essential oils
My Choice of Essential Oils
My favourite essential oils in this recipe are lemon and orange, but don’t be limited by my suggestions. Use oils that fit your budget, or those that you already have in your collection. Read here for more information.
Method
1. Add vinegar and salt to a saucepan and heat on low until salt has dissolved.
2. Allow to cool, add castile soap and essential oils and mix until combined.
3. Transfer into a bottle (with trigger spray atomiser).
To Use
Spray liberally on weeds, coating stem and all leaves (being mindful not to spray on grass or other plants as this may damage or even kill them). Apply on a sunny day for best results. Shake well prior to each use.
Recipe Notes
The highest strength vinegar you can source, the better the result you will have.
Another option is to pour boiling water on weeds or look into flame-weeding. This is a good method for concrete paths and driveways.
