My Nana Swears by This DIY Weed Killer Recipe – Here’s How It Works
If there’s one thing my nana has always loved, it’s keeping her garden looking flawless—no chemicals, no fancy tools, just tried-and-true wisdom passed down through generations. One of her favorite tricks? A DIY weed killer that’s simple, safe, and seriously effective. This homemade solution is budget-friendly, uses common household ingredients, and is gentle on the environment.
Weeds can be relentless. They spring up in the cracks of sidewalks, creep through garden beds, and take over corners of the yard in what feels like overnight. While store-bought weed killers might work, they often contain harsh chemicals that can harm your soil, pets, or nearby plants. My nana’s recipe avoids all of that and still gets the job done beautifully.
Whether you’re battling dandelions, crabgrass, or those tiny sprouts that seem to grow after every rainfall, this weed killer is the natural fix you’ve been looking for.
Why Choose a Homemade Weed Killer?
It’s safe for children and pets
It’s easy to make with ingredients you probably already have
It won’t contaminate your garden soil
It’s cost-effective and lasts a long time
You avoid harsh chemical fumes
The Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need:
1 gallon white vinegar (5% acetic acid)
1/4 cup salt (table salt or rock salt)
1 tablespoon liquid dish soap
Instructions
- Pour the vinegar into a large spray bottle or garden sprayer
- Add the salt and stir or shake until it’s dissolved
- Add the dish soap and shake gently to combine
- Spray directly onto weeds, ideally on a warm, sunny day
The vinegar breaks down plant cells, the salt dehydrates them, and the dish soap helps the solution stick to the leaves. Within a few hours, you’ll start to see the weeds wilt. By the next day, they’re usually brown and dying off completely.
Tips for Best Results
Apply on a dry, sunny day for maximum effect
Avoid spraying on windy days to prevent drift onto other plants
Target only the weeds—you don’t want this on your flowers or veggies
Repeat the treatment as needed for stubborn or deep-rooted weeds
Use a funnel when filling the spray bottle to avoid spills
Where to Use It
Driveway cracks
Sidewalk edges
Gravel pathways
Patio stones
Around fence posts
Between garden beds (with care)
This solution is non-selective, meaning it will kill any plant it touches, not just weeds. Use it strategically and sparingly, especially around areas with plants you want to protect.
Does It Work on All Weeds?
It’s especially effective on young, shallow-rooted weeds like clover, chickweed, and dandelions. Deep-rooted weeds like bindweed or creeping Charlie may need several applications. For those, it’s still a safer method than using chemical herbicides.
Is It Safe for Lawns and Gardens?
Yes and no. It’s safe in that it doesn’t linger in the soil or cause long-term damage, but it will kill grass or garden plants if sprayed directly. So be precise in your application. If you’re targeting weeds near flowers, use a cardboard shield or spray one weed at a time to avoid overspray.
How Long Does It Last?
This DIY weed killer works fast but may not provide long-term prevention like commercial pre-emergent products. However, it’s ideal for spot treatments, and because it’s so affordable and simple to make, you can reapply as needed throughout the season.
Can You Make a Stronger Version?
Some gardeners like to use horticultural vinegar (20% acetic acid), but it’s much stronger and should be used with gloves and eye protection. My nana always stuck with the regular 5% vinegar because it was effective enough without being dangerous.
Storage Tips
Store the mixture in a cool, dark place
Label the spray bottle so no one accidentally mistakes it for something else
Shake before each use as the salt can settle
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about using a homemade remedy that actually works. My nana’s DIY weed killer is simple, effective, and easy on the earth. It’s perfect for gardeners who want to stay chemical-free while keeping their yards neat and tidy.
So next time you see weeds popping up where they don’t belong, skip the store-bought sprays and mix up a batch of this three-ingredient solution. It’s quick to make, safe to use, and every bit as effective as products that cost much more.