Weed Killer
A vinegar, salt, and dish soap spray that kills weeds on contact without toxic herbicides — effective on driveways, paths, and garden beds.
Commercial herbicides like glyphosate (Roundup) raise legitimate health and environmental concerns that have made many homeowners look for alternatives. This natural weed killer works through a combination of three mechanisms: acetic acid in vinegar dehydrates and kills plant tissue; salt draws water out of plant cells through osmosis; and dish soap helps the mixture stick to waxy leaf surfaces rather than beading off.
This spray is non-selective — it will kill or damage any plant it contacts, not just weeds. Use carefully near desirable plants and flowers. It is most effective on young weeds and annual plants; established perennials with deep root systems may regrow and require repeat treatments. It works on the foliage it contacts but does not persist in the soil like some synthetic herbicides.
Apply in the afternoon when plants are actively photosynthesizing and dew has dried — wet foliage dilutes the spray and reduces effectiveness. Results appear within hours on warm sunny days. Multiple applications may be needed for established weeds.
Ingredients
- 1 gallon white vinegar
- 2 cups Epsom salt or table salt
- 1/4 cup Dawn dish soap
How to Use
- 1Combine vinegar, salt, and dish soap in a large spray bottle or garden sprayer.
- 2Shake until the salt is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- 3Allow to settle for 2 minutes before use.
- 4Spray weeds thoroughly, coating all leaf surfaces.
- 5Apply in the afternoon when weeds are dry and not damp from morning dew.
- 6Allow to sit for at least 24 hours before watering the area. Repeat applications as needed for stubborn weeds.