{"id":14180,"date":"2023-12-08T22:03:42","date_gmt":"2023-12-08T22:03:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=14180"},"modified":"2026-08-07T23:49:27","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T23:49:27","slug":"how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Make Homemade Weed Killer"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Key takeaways<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 <strong>Horticultural vinegar<\/strong> (20%+ acetic acid) kills on contact within 24 hours, but also kills grass.<br>\u2022 <strong>Corn gluten meal<\/strong> is the only grass-safe option on this list that acts as a pre-emergent.<br>\u2022 <strong>Salt persists in soil<\/strong> for months to several years. Only use salt-based recipes on driveways and hardscapes, not in garden beds or lawns<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Making a homemade weed killer is cheaper than most store-bought options and avoids synthetic chemicals, but the recipe and timing matter more than most people realize. The strongest homemade option, horticultural vinegar with salt and dish soap, can kill most weeds within 24 hours, but it also kills your grass.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you need a grass-safe, low\u2011toxicity product that helps prevent new weeds, corn gluten meal is the only option here. For established weeds in your lawn, Lawn Love&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/weed-control\">local weed control pros<\/a> can handle the hard cases while you maintain prevention at home.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-d6c91e50-1362-4b90-8668-d40fbd92bcfc\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">In this article:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#0-how-homemade-weed-killers-work\" style=\"\">How homemade weed killers work<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#1-which-recipe-is-right-for-your-situation\" style=\"\">Which recipe is right for your situation?<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#2-vinegar-and-salt-solution\" style=\"\">Vinegar and salt solution<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#3-corn-gluten-meal\" style=\"\">Corn gluten meal<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#4-essential-oils-and-vinegar-spray\" style=\"\">Essential oils and vinegar spray<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#5-borax\" style=\"\">Borax<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#6-rubbing-alcohol\" style=\"\">Rubbing alcohol<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#7-baking-soda-and-water\" style=\"\">Baking soda and water<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#8-boiling-water\" style=\"\">Boiling water<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#9-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-how-homemade-weed-killers-work\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"how-homemade-weed-killers-work\">How homemade weed killers work<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most DIY weed killer recipes kill weeds through one of 3 mechanisms:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Contact damage<\/strong>: Acetic acid (vinegar) and alcohol rupture cell walls on contact, drying out leaves and stems. Roots are usually unaffected, so <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/types-of-weeds\/\">perennial weeds<\/a> often regrow.<\/li>    <li><strong>Soil disruption<\/strong>: Salt, baking soda, and borax each change soil chemistry in different ways. They can <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-change-soil-ph\/\">raise pH<\/a>, interfere with nutrient uptake, or build up toxic mineral levels, which can have lasting effects on nearby plants.<\/li>    <li><strong>Pre-emergent prevention<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/corn-gluten-meal-for-weeds\/\">Corn gluten meal<\/a> inhibits root formation in germinating seeds. It only works before weeds sprout, <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-are-pre-emergent-herbicides\/\">not on established plants<\/a>.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jessica Mercer, PhD, horticulturist at <a href=\"https:\/\/plantaddicts.com\/all-plants\/pet-safe-plants\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Plant Addicts<\/a> in Omaha, Nebraska, says there&#8217;s a major limitation to these contact sprays.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cHomemade remedies typically do not kill <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/common-lawn-weeds\/\">perennials with deep taproots<\/a>, like <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/remove-dandelions\/\">dandelions<\/a>, dock, and thistle, or established woody shrubs and vines,\u201d she says. \u201cIf sprayed on the leaves, the solution may burn the foliage but it will not move into the root system and kill the plant like a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/types-of-post-emergent-herbicides\/\">systemic herbicide<\/a> does. Deep-rooted perennials and woody plants usually come back.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To deal with these stubborn plants, Mercer recommends a different approach.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cFor <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/landscaping-how-to-deal-with-overgrown-weeds\/\">deep-rooted perennial weeds<\/a>, I recommend repeatedly removing the top growth by <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-mowing-tips-and-tricks\/\">mowing<\/a>, pulling, or smothering to weaken the root system over time. If the weed is woody or invasive, physically removing the roots by hand digging is usually the most effective approach.\u201d<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>When to apply<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>How it works<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Pre-emergent<\/td><td>Before weed seeds germinate (early spring)<\/td><td>Prevents root formation in sprouting seeds<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Post-emergent<\/td><td>After weeds are visible<\/td><td>Kills existing plant tissue on contact or systemically<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h2 id=\"1-which-recipe-is-right-for-your-situation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"which-recipe-is-right-for-your-situation\">Which recipe is right for your situation?<\/span><\/h2>   \n<table id=\"tablepress-25\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-25\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\"><strong>Recipe<\/strong><\/th><th class=\"column-2\"><strong>Effectiveness<\/strong><\/th><th class=\"column-3\"><strong>Safe for grass?<\/strong><\/th><th class=\"column-4\"><strong>Best for<\/strong><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Vinegar + salt solution<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">High<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Driveway cracks, pavers, and young annual broadleaf weeds<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Corn gluten meal<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Low to medium<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Yes<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Preventing crabgrass; Annual grassy and broadleaf weeds<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Essential oils + vinegar spray<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Medium-high<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Broadleaf weeds in garden beds (contact kill)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Borax<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Low<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No (avoid lawn)<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Weeds in pavement cracks only<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Rubbing alcohol<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Medium<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Young broadleaf weeds on pavement<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Baking soda + water<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Low<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Young broadleaf seedlings<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Boiling water<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Low<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">No<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Concrete or walkway cracks; Young weeds in cracks and pavement<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-25 from cache -->    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important:<\/strong> No homemade recipe selectively targets weeds while leaving established grass unharmed. For broadleaf weed control in lawns, a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-control-weeds-by-type\/\">selective herbicide<\/a> is the right tool.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"2-vinegar-and-salt-solution\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"vinegar-and-salt-solution\">Vinegar and salt solution<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Overall success<\/strong>: High<br><strong>Best for<\/strong>: Young annual broadleaf weeds<br><strong>Herbicide type<\/strong>: Post-emergent<br><strong>Safe for grass<\/strong>: No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/does-vinegar-kill-weeds\/\">Horticultural vinegar<\/a> (20%\u201330% acetic acid) combined with salt and dish soap is the strongest <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/pros-cons-homemade-weed-killers\/\">non-selective homemade weed killer<\/a> widely available. It dehydrates plants and burns plant tissues, disrupting cell membranes.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cNatural does not automatically mean safe,\u201d Mercer says. \u201cConcentrated vinegar can burn skin and eyes, and salt can damage soil and surrounding plants even after the spray dries.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mercer says the biggest mistake people make is treating 20% horticultural vinegar like kitchen vinegar.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cIt is strong enough to blister skin, injure eyes, harm soil life, and damage any plant it touches,\u201d she explains. \u201cAlways wear gloves and eye protection and apply it carefully around desirable plants. Be careful using it on patios or driveways because repeated exposure can damage concrete.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adding salt can keep treated areas bare for months to several years by making the soil inhospitable, but it does not directly kill roots the way a systemic herbicide does.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cSalt lasts much longer in the soil than vinegar, up to several years, so only use it where you want nothing to grow, such as in driveway cracks or along hardscape edges,\u201d Mercer warns. \u201cOnce salt builds up in a planting area, flushing it out can take a long time and is not always easy to correct.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you need<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>1 gallon of horticultural vinegar<\/li>    <li>1 tablespoon of dish soap<\/li>    <li>1 cup of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-use-salt-to-kill-weeds\/\">table salt<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Directions<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Mix the ingredients until the solution is uniform.<\/li>    <li>Apply with a garden sprayer.\u00a0<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important safety note<\/strong>: Since the solution contains a strong acid, cover your skin and eyes, and store the vinegar spray away from children and pets. Also, avoid inhaling its vapors by only handling it in open outdoor spaces.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Application tips:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Do<\/strong>: Apply to every weed leaf, as soon as weeds sprout, on a hot and dry day. Wear waterproof gloves and safety glasses.<\/li>    <li><strong>Avoid<\/strong>: Using in garden beds, near turf, in rain or wind, or near people and pets.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"3-corn-gluten-meal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"corn-gluten-meal\">Corn gluten meal<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2.jpg\" alt=\"Pile of yellow corn gluten meal granules used as a natural fertilizer on a white surface\" class=\"wp-image-36950\" style=\"width:800px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Corn gluten meal, a natural fertilizer and pre-emergent weed preventer. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/phuthinhco\/7604800852\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Phu Thinh Co<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Overall success<\/strong>: Low to medium<br><strong>Best for<\/strong>: Annual grassy weeds (including <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-crabgrass\/\">crabgrass<\/a>) and broadleaf weeds\u00a0<br><strong>Herbicide type<\/strong>: Pre-emergent<br><strong>Safe for grass:<\/strong> Yes<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/corn-gluten-meal-for-weeds\/\">Corn gluten meal<\/a> is the only <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/all-natural-and-organic-weed-killers\/\">natural weed killer<\/a> on this list that won&#8217;t damage your lawn. It interferes with root formation in germinating seeds while fertilizing grass with slow-release nitrogen.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cCorn gluten meal is a pre-emergent suppressant, so it must be applied when weeds are germinating from seed,\u201d Mercer says. \u201cIt will not work on <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-weeds-grass\/\">established weeds<\/a>, and many common corn products, like cornmeal, corn flour, and cracked corn, do not have the right analysis to be weed suppressants.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Effectiveness varies significantly by timing, application rate, and weather. The key is to apply <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-to-apply-pre-emergent-herbicide\/\">before weeds germinate<\/a>, and avoid applying right before heavy rain.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you need<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Corn gluten meal (60% to 65% protein)<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Directions<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Use a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-fertilizer-spreaders\/\">fertilizer spreader<\/a> to apply the granules.<\/li>    <li>Gently water the lawn to activate, only applying about \u00bc-inch of water.<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Application tips:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Do<\/strong>: Pull visible weeds before applying, calibrate the spreader, and apply evenly on established lawns.<\/li>    <li><strong>Avoid<\/strong>: After overseeding, to new grass, to visible weeds, when the lawn is wet, before heavy rain, or overwatering.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"4-essential-oils-and-vinegar-spray\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"essential-oils-and-vinegar-spray\">Essential oils and vinegar spray<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Overall success<\/strong>: Medium to high<br><strong>Best for<\/strong>: Broadleaf weeds in garden beds and pavement cracks (not in lawns)<br><strong>Herbicide type<\/strong>: Post-emergent<br><strong>How it works<\/strong>: Dehydrating plants, killing microbes, damaging plant tissue<br><strong>Safe for grass:<\/strong> No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This homemade weed killer recipe uses essential oils instead of straight vinegar, but it\u2019s still a strong contact herbicide. Treat it like a pesticide and wear gloves and <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/pet-friendly-lawn-fertilizer\/\">keep pets away<\/a> until it\u2019s dry.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clove oil targets broadleaf weeds and soil microbes. Cinnamon oil is effective against redroot pigweed and wild mustard. Peppermint oil kills young weeds and prevents <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/perennial-ryegrass-guide\/\">ryegrass seeds<\/a> from germinating. White vinegar dehydrates plants and is most effective at <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-identify-control-broadleaf-weeds\/\">broadleaf weed control<\/a>. Finally, add dish soap so the formula sticks to your weeds.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you need<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>10 drops of clove oil<\/li>    <li>10 drops of peppermint oil<\/li>    <li>10 drops of cinnamon oil<\/li>    <li>4 cups of white distilled vinegar<\/li>    <li>1 tablespoon of dish soap<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Directions<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Mix the ingredients until uniform.<\/li>    <li>Apply with a sprayer.<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Application tips:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Do<\/strong>: Shake the sprayer, store in a dark-colored spray bottle in a cool place, apply on a sunny day, and wear gloves.<\/li>    <li><strong>Avoid<\/strong>: Using on turf, applying to wet weeds, spraying during heavy wind, right before a rainstorm, or letting it get on plants you want to keep.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"5-borax\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"borax\">Borax<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AdobeStock_489970144-2.jpeg\" alt=\"Glass bowl filled with white borax powder on a blue background\" class=\"wp-image-36953\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AdobeStock_489970144-2.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AdobeStock_489970144-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AdobeStock_489970144-2-768x513.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AdobeStock_489970144-2-610x407.jpeg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A glass bowl of borax powder, commonly used as a natural weed killer. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/powdered-laundry-detergent-in-a-bowl\/489970144\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Michelle<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Overall success<\/strong>: Low<br><strong>Best for<\/strong>: Occasional spot\u2011treatment of weeds in pavement cracks only<br><strong>Herbicide type<\/strong>: Post-emergent<br><strong>Safe for grass:<\/strong> No \u2014 avoid lawn application<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Borax targets stubborn weeds using boron toxicity and sodium dehydration. Some homeowners use it to <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/lawn-weed-control\/\">spot-treat their lawns<\/a>, but this is a very bad idea.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mercer says repeated use leads to lasting changes.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cBorax adds boron, a micronutrient that can be toxic if overapplied. These chemicals are best for weeds in pavement cracks, not in <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/\">garden beds<\/a> or anywhere you plan to plant later.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you need<\/strong>:&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>1 \u00bc cups of Borax (laundry powder)<\/li>    <li>1 gallon of hot water<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Directions<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Mix Borax with hot water until it completely dissolves.\u00a0<\/li>    <li>Then, apply it with a sprayer.<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Application tips:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Do<\/strong>: Apply early in the morning after the dew dries, apply a second round 2 weeks after the first application, wear safety glasses and long clothes.<\/li>    <li><strong>Avoid<\/strong>: Getting it on desirable plants, applying to turf, or using near children or pets.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"6-rubbing-alcohol\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"rubbing-alcohol\">Rubbing alcohol<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Rubbing-alcohol-1.jpg\" alt=\"Bottle of isopropyl rubbing alcohol\" class=\"wp-image-30889\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Rubbing-alcohol-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Rubbing-alcohol-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Rubbing-alcohol-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Rubbing-alcohol-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Rubbing-alcohol-1-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Isopropyl rubbing alcohol, which can be used as a natural weed killer. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/ajay_suresh\/51013600587\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ajay_suresh<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Overall success<\/strong>: Medium<br><strong>Best for<\/strong>: Broadleaf weeds<br><strong>Herbicide type<\/strong>: Post-emergent<br><strong>Safe for grass<\/strong>: No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Diluted rubbing alcohol dehydrates weed tissue on contact. Use it only for driveway cracks and gravel, because repeated use can damage nearby plants and <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-soil-test-your-lawn\/\">soil life<\/a>. Don&#8217;t forget that rubbing alcohol is highly flammable.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you need<\/strong>:&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>1 quart of water<\/li>    <li>2 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Directions<\/strong>:&nbsp;<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Mix the rubbing alcohol and water.<\/li>    <li>Apply it with a garden sprayer.<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Application tips:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Do<\/strong>: Apply with a cotton ball for precision on hot, sunny days. Wash it off immediately if any gets on the turf.<\/li>    <li><strong>Avoid<\/strong>: Applying when weeds are wet or before a rainstorm.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"7-baking-soda-and-water\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"baking-soda-and-water\">Baking soda and water<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Overall success<\/strong>: Low\u00a0<br><strong>Best for<\/strong>: Young broadleaf weeds<br><strong>Herbicide type<\/strong>: Post-emergent<br><strong>How it works<\/strong>: Dehydrating plants, killing microbes, raising soil pH<br><strong>Safe for grass:<\/strong> No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This mixture only harms plant parts that it touches. Typically, it only kills <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/landscaping-common-broadleaf-weeds-found-in-your-yard\/\">young broadleaf weeds<\/a>, but it can cause decline in any plant.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Baking soda is still a salt that can upset soil and cause problems if overused. Since salt dries out plants and soil, many homeowners hone in on this homemade weed-killer spray. Like other salt-based substances, baking soda can linger in soil for months.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you need<\/strong>:&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>1 cup of baking soda<\/li>    <li>1 gallon of water<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Directions<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Mix the solution until all the baking soda dissolves<\/li>    <li>Then, apply it with a spray bottle<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Application tips:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Do<\/strong>: Apply on a hot and sunny day and shake the bottle before applying.<\/li>    <li><strong>Avoid<\/strong>: Applying if your soil is already salty, right before heavy rain, or to high pH soil.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"8-boiling-water\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"boiling-water\">Boiling water<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Overall success<\/strong>: Low<br><strong>Herbicide type<\/strong>: Post-emergent<br><strong>Best for<\/strong>: Young weeds with shallow roots<br><strong>Safe for<\/strong> <strong>grass:<\/strong> No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Boiling water is the easiest and cheapest homemade weed killer. It damages plant tissue but is non-selective and can harm any plant. It may permanently kill shallow-rooted weeds, but established perennials often regrow.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cBoiling water should be reserved for weeds in pavement cracks where there are no nearby roots you want to protect,\u201d Mercer says.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cOccasional use on solid concrete or pavers is unlikely to cause much damage, but repeated use on asphalt, loose joints, or already weakened surfaces can lead to problems. The biggest hazard with boiling water, however, is the risk of splashing nearby plants or yourself,\u201d she continues.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you need<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Boiling water<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Directions<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Boil water.<\/li>    <li>Pour it directly on unwanted weeds.<\/li> <\/ol>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<strong>Application tips:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Do<\/strong>: Apply with a tea kettle while the water is boiling, targeting small weeds in cracks.<\/li>    <li><strong>Avoid<\/strong>: Splashing boiling water on yourself or desirable plants.<\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"9-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1780584023140\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does homemade weed killer work on dandelions?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Most DIY sprays only damage the visible leaves. Dandelions have deep taproots, meaning they will likely regrow unless you manually dig out the root system or repeatedly smother them.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1780584032724\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How long does a homemade weed killer take to work?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Strong contact solutions like vinegar and salt can wilt and kill visible weed foliage within 24 hours. Slower methods like baking soda may take several days to show results.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1780584049048\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is homemade weed killer safe for pets?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">While ingredients like vinegar and salt are natural, concentrated horticultural vinegar and essential oils can irritate skin, eyes, and paws.<br><br>Always keep pets away until the treated area is completely dry. For salt-based recipes, keep pets away from treated soil for longer, since salt residue can linger and irritate paws even after the liquid dries.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"10-skip-the-spraying-and-call-a-pro\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"skip-the-spraying-and-call-a-pro\">Skip the spraying and call a pro<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If pesky weeds are an eyesore in your lawn, it\u2019s time to call a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/weed-control\">weed control pro<\/a>. Since regular mowing is one of the best cultural practices for controlling weeds, we also recommend hiring a pro for routine <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/lawn-mowing\">lawn care<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"14-lawn-love-connects-you-with-qualified-outdoor-service-experts-our-app-makes-it-easy-to-find-local-pros-with-insurance-and-affordable-rates-it-only-takes-a-couple-of-mouse-clicks-to-make-your-lawn-lovely-and-lush\">Lawn Love connects you with qualified outdoor service experts. Our app makes it easy to find local pros with insurance and affordable rates. It only takes a couple of mouse clicks to make your lawn lovely and lush.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: A gardener spraying weed killer on a dandelion growing in a pathway. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/a-gardener-spraying-weed-killer-on-to-a-dandelion-weed-growing-on-a-pathway\/336430572\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">dean<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You can control weeds without commercial chemicals by using simple homemade solutions like horticultural vinegar, corn gluten meal, borax, and rubbing alcohol.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":68,"featured_media":36957,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[126],"tags":[226],"class_list":["post-14180","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lawn-care-tips","tag-lawn-care-tips"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AdobeStock_336430572-2.jpeg","author_info":{"display_name":"Adrian Nita","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/adrian-nita\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14180","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/68"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14180"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14180\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":48225,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14180\/revisions\/48225"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/36957"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14180"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14180"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14180"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}