How to Create an Effective, Chemical-Free Homemade Weed Killer

In fact, a well-kept lawn may increase the susceptibility of your grass to weeds. Well-maintained, closely-mowed lawns are ideal for invasive species such as crabgrass, dandelions, and others.

RELATED: 5 Clever Ways to Repurpose Your Grass Clippings

One simple strategy to decrease weed growth is to mow less often. Keeping your grass a bit longer can actually protect weeds from taking root, despite what many people think.

A natural weed-killer is still a wise addition to your lawn care regimen, though, even if you're trying your hardest to mow your lawn and lawn aeration. These natural alternatives to harsh chemicals are effective and can be manufactured at home.

RELATED: 3 Simple, Chemical-Free Ways to Eliminate Dandelions

Things to Think About Before You Begin

Sometimes human work is the best alternative, even when there are natural commercial weed killers available, such as vinegar-based treatments. The application technique can be challenging even with chemical weed killers because they have the potential to spread outside of the designated locations. Using a weed puller and a bucket could be your best bet if you're worried about hurting your lawn. This traditional approach guarantees accurate management and eliminates the possibility of brown patches on your lawn.

What You'll Need

Vinegar and Borax Method:

• 1 gallon of Vinegar
• 1 cup of Borax (or salt)
• 1 tablespoon of Dish soap

Instructions

How to Make a Natural Homemade Weed Killer with Vinegar and Borax

STEP 1: Blend Ingredients

• Fill a spray bottle with a nozzle that alternates between spray and stream with vinegar, borax, and dish soap.

STEP 2: Spray on Lawn

• Use the stream option for smaller areas. Change to the spray setting for more serious weed issues. Take care not to go overboard. Avoid overspraying because the solution might impact both weeds and flowers. Although borax is a naturally occurring substance that is harmless for ecosystems, it can damage soil and inhibit the growth of other plants.
• Because the acidity of the vinegar will burn the plants and the salt will cause them to shrivel by dusk, this method is best used on sunny days. The solution adheres better to the weeds thanks to the dish soap.

How to Kill Weeds with Newspaper

STEP 1: Employ a Weed Whacker

• A weed whacker can assist in removing weeds from an overgrown garden.

STEP 2: Lay Down Newspaper

• By restricting the air and sunlight, newspapers inhibit the growth of weeds and the formation of new seeds.

STEP 3: Add Mulch

• Spread mulch over the newspaper. The newspaper will eventually decompose and no cleanup will be necessary as a result of the weeds not growing.

How to Kill Weeds with Boiling Water

STEP 1: Pour Boiling Water on Weeds

• Directly apply boiling water to weeds that are growing in driveway and sidewalk cracks. The weeds will be instantly killed by the heat. Pour cautiously and approach the weeds closely to prevent splashing.

STEP 2: As necessary, repeat

• You might need to repeat this process until the area is clear because it doesn't eradicate the weeds at their source. To prevent burns, always take safety precautions.

How to Kill Weeds with Lemon Juice

STEP 1: Weeds

• Saturate the weeds with fresh lemon juice by filling a spray bottle. In a day or two, it will dry out and the leaves will be dead. Bottled lemon juice is equally effective if fresh lemons are not available.

STEP 2: Add Vinegar

• Combine lemon juice and acidic vinegar to create a stronger solution. This combo works better on difficult weeds since the garden-grade vinegar is stronger than the store-bought variety.

RELATED: 12 Common Garden and Lawn Weeds You Should Know—and How to Eliminate Them for Good