Gardeners say kitchen staple is 'better' than vinegar for killing gravel weeds

Garden enthusiasts have shared a household item they claim is "better" than white vinegar for eradicating stubborn gravel weeds. Gravel paths and driveways can quickly become an eyesore when overrun by weeds, transforming a tidy outdoor area into a chaotic wilderness.

The battle to eliminate these unwanted intruders is a common struggle among gardeners. However, gardening aficionados have discovered a trick that outperforms white vinegar and claims to obliterate weeds "almost instantly".

The best part? This wonder solution is probably already in your kitchen cupboard. Members of the Gardening Hints and Tips Facebook group revealed this clever tip after one member sought advice for dealing with persistent weeds on their gravel driveway.

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They wrote: "I've seen lots of posts lately about the use of white vinegar and salt for weed killing.", reports the Express. "I have a gravel-covered drive and can't seem to keep the weeds at bay, even using the recommended weed killer for paths.

"Would they work on the drive or is there something better? There are no other plants nearby and it's not like I would be planting anything on the drive in the future."

Group members quickly responded with their suggestions, and while many supported the use of white vinegar and salt as effective solutions, they pointed out something even better - washing powder.

One resident said: "I used to use salt on my alleyway and it works, but washing powder was better for me." Another resident added: "I had success with some cheap soap powder and boiling water." A third resident said: "Laundry powders are amazing on gravel weeds. You can see the results almost instantly."

Gardening expert Tom Clifford has previously shared with Ideal Home a nifty trick for those looking to avoid harsh chemicals: "Strong chemical weed killers, although effective, can often be harmful to your patio surface, especially if it's made from delicate stone."

Washing powder offers a gentler option that shouldn't harm your patio surface but will effectively kill weeds. In addition, washing powder is a regular household object, making it much more accessible and affordable than chemical weed killers.

It contains the plant-toxic substance boron, can be used as an effective weed killer. However, caution is advised as it can also harm desirable plants.

To apply, simply sprinkle washing powder over the affected area and douse with boiling water.