Get rid of weeds without resorting to herbicides
Paths made of asphalt, concrete, various bricks or paving stones: no one likes to see these defaced by tufts of weeds, and so we periodically, we dedicate ourselves to weeding them, cutting them down or killing them with powerful herbicides. It's hard work, but someone has to do it. It is not always necessary, however, to resort to using herbicides.
Herbicides are undoubtedly effective but they also risk harming pets and humans (especially children). Furthermore, by penetrating into the ground, they can kill other plants found in neighboring flower beds or green areas. How, then, can we avoid having to stoop to the ground to eradicate weeds by hand? You can use alternative methods based on common ingredients.
- Boiling water: we are supporters of this solution. Economical, effective and not at all harmful to other plants in the area. It may be slower to act and less lethal than other solutions, but it can be used at any time of day and any season. It's risk-free for animals and people. Beware of splashing, and don't pour the boiling water close to your feet or clothing to avoid getting burned.
- Blowtorch: certainly lethal, quite drastic and to be handled with extreme caution. This is a more delicate job but it does its duty without ruining anything around the treated area. Be careful not to use blowtorches on windy days, and be even more cautious in the case of very dry surroundings. Either way, sweep the area thoroughly of any dry leaves, needles, or anything that can catch fire beforehand.
- Isopropyl alcohol: alcohol deprives the leaves of the weeds of water, causing them to die, and makng weeding them later very easy. Dilute two tablespoons of isopropyl alcohol in a liter of water in a bottle and spray it directly on the weeds to be eliminated on a sunny day.
- Vinegar and dish soap: Fill a one-liter bottle with 120ml of vinegar and the rest with water. Pour in a few drops of soap, then shake and spray where needed, also on a sunny day.
So, if you really cannot do hand-weeding (which is best for the environment), these can be certainly be less harmful alternatives for the soil and the animals that live in our green spaces. Have you ever tried them?
