‘Game-changing’ solution to ‘kill gravel weeds overnight’ and ‘remove moss’

Weeds growing in gravel are difficult to remove, let alone control. Of course, some weeds can be hand removed, but often they will return with a vengeance and in greater numbers. 

Pulling those weeds that are just about to bloom will aid in reducing the number by preventing the plant from going to seed. 

Some weeds have a deep taproot, making it extremely tough to get rid of by hand. Luckily gardeners have took to the Gardening UK Facebook page to share their top weed removal methods.

One man received over 100 suggestions from fellow gardeners after he took to the page to ask for weed removal tips.

John Hopkins said: “My wife and I are getting on a bit and it’s a real chore to try and keep the gravel area free of weeds. Your views and experiences please?”

READ MORE: ‘Best’ method remove lawn weeds ‘instantly and effectively’ with ‘no digging’

When gravel is laid a weed barrier should have been added prior. If this is not done or the barrier is old and full of holes, weeds will be free to spring up.

Those who commented on the post were against chemical weed killers and instead suggested a range of natural methods, one of which is white vinegar.

Laurie Cunningham said: “Instead of a dangerous pesticide… we use either boiling water or a solution of vinegar. Both work.”

Terry Turner commented: “I used white vinegar on my gravel driveway and it worked a treat.”

Sophie Harland replied: “White vinegar is game-changing for this as it’s too acidic for weeds to survive. I buy cheap bottles of white vinegar and lash it around where I don’t want weeds, just squirt it on neat in dry weather and it kills gravel weeds overnight.

“It works for removing moss on paths too. It dried it right out so the moss just brushes off.”

Helen Phillips wrote: “Simply pouring vinegar straight on them will kill the weeds. But makes sure to avoid plants.”

Jane Sedgwick commented: “I buy the Stardrops white vinegar spray from Home Bargains, it’s only about 80p and it works a treat.”

White vinegar is considered to be one of the strongest weed and grass killers, thanks to its relatively high acetic acid content. 

This chemical removes the moisture from weeds, killing them via dehydration, and is even more effective when mixed with a bit of dish soap to break down the plant’s outer layers.

Other gardening enthusiasts suggested using boiling water and salt. Sandra Lovett wrote: “Boiling salt water kills them overnight, then do it as soon as they start showing through again.”

Marylin Needham said: “Pour boiling water on it. I got this tip from a gardening group and tried it out for myself. It’s cheap and cheerful.”

Jack Pengelly wrote: “Sprinkle salt (lidl 18p a box) on a dry day when rain (but not torrential) is forecasted.”

Salt works to kill weeds by dehydrating the plants and disrupting the internal water balance of the plant’s cells. 

Since salt is water-soluble, it is most effectively applied when mixed with water, making it easier for the weeds to absorb.