Weeds are a common problem in gardens and landscapes. They can quickly take over and compete with flowers and other plants for nutrients and water. 

What kills weeds but not flowers?

Many people turn to herbicides to control weeds, but these chemicals can also harm desirable plants and flowers. So, what kills weeds but not flowers? Here are some effective methods:

1. Manual Weeding: One of the most effective ways to control weeds without harming flowers is to manually remove them by hand. This can be done using a hoe, garden fork, or hand trowel to carefully dig up the weed, making sure to remove all of the roots. This method requires some time and effort, but it is safe for flowers and other desirable plants.
2. Organic Mulch: Using organic mulch such as straw, leaves, or grass clippings can help to suppress weed growth while also providing a range of benefits to flowers and other plants. Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, regulate soil temperature, and add nutrients as it breaks down. It’s important to apply a layer of mulch that is at least 2-3 inches thick to effectively suppress weeds.
3. Corn Gluten Meal: Corn gluten meal is a natural by-product of corn processing that can act as pre-emergent weed control. It contains a high level of nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for flowers and other plants. Sprinkling corn gluten meal around the base of flowers and other plants can help to prevent weed seeds from germinating without harming the desirable plants.
4. Organic Herbicides: There are several organic herbicides available that are safe for flowers and other plants. These herbicides are typically made from natural ingredients such as clove oil, vinegar, or citric acid. They work by disrupting the cell structure of the weed, causing it to wither and die. It’s important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions to avoid harming desirable plants.
5. Spot Treatments: If weeds are present in areas where flowers and other plants are growing, spot treatments can be an effective way to control them. Spot treatments involve applying herbicides only to the weeds, and taking care to avoid contact with flowers and other desirable plants. This can be done using a spray bottle or paintbrush, depending on the size of the area.

What natural weed killers kill weeds down to the roots?

There are several natural weed killers that can effectively kill weeds down to the roots. Here are some options:

1. Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water directly onto weeds can kill them down to the roots. This method is particularly effective for weeds growing in cracks and between pavers.
2. Salt: Salt can be an effective natural weed killer, but it should be used with caution as it can also harm desirable plants. Mix 1 cup of salt with 2 cups of water and pour the solution directly onto the weeds. Keep in mind that salt can also leach into the soil and affect other plants, so use this method sparingly.
3. Vinegar: Vinegar is a natural herbicide that can be effective in killing weeds down to the roots. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply the solution directly to weeds. For tougher weeds, you can increase the concentration of vinegar.
4. Citric Acid: Citric acid is a natural compound that can be found in lemons and other citrus fruits. It can be an effective weed killer when mixed with water and applied directly to weeds. Mix 1 tablespoon of citric acid with 1 quart of water and apply the solution to weeds using a spray bottle or brush.
5. Corn Gluten Meal: Corn gluten meal is a natural by-product of corn processing that can act as pre-emergent weed control. It works by inhibiting the growth of weed seeds before they sprout. Apply corn gluten meal around the base of plants to prevent weed growth.

It’s important to keep in mind that while natural weed killers can be effective in killing weeds down to the roots, they can also harm desirable plants. It’s important to use these methods with caution and to avoid contact with desirable plants. Additionally, it may take multiple applications to completely kill the weed down to the roots.

Natural way to get rid of weeds in cracks

Weeds growing in cracks can be unsightly and difficult to remove. However, there are several natural methods you can use to get rid of them.

1. Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water onto weeds growing in cracks can kill them down to the roots. This method is particularly effective for weeds growing in small cracks or gaps. However, be careful not to pour boiling water onto desirable plants or grass.
2. Vinegar: White vinegar can be an effective natural herbicide for killing weeds growing in cracks. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply the solution directly to the weeds. For tougher weeds, you can increase the concentration of vinegar.
3. Salt: Salt can also be an effective natural weed killer for cracks. Mix 1 cup of salt with 2 cups of water and pour the solution directly onto the weeds. Keep in mind that salt can also leach into the soil and affect other plants, so use this method sparingly.
4. Baking Soda: Baking soda can be an effective natural weed-killer for cracks. Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the weeds and let it sit for a few hours. Then, rinse the area with water to remove any remaining baking soda.
5. Pulling by hand: For smaller weeds, you can simply pull them out by hand. Make sure to remove all of the roots to prevent them from growing back.
6. Organic Mulch: Adding organic mulch, such as straw or leaves, to the area between the cracks can help suppress weed growth. Mulch also helps to retain moisture in the soil and adds nutrients as it breaks down.

There are several natural ways to get rid of weeds in cracks, including boiling water, vinegar, salt, baking soda, pulling by hand, and organic mulch. It’s important to choose the method that is appropriate for the situation and to use caution when using any herbicide. With proper care and attention, it’s possible to maintain a healthy and weed-free landscape.

Conclusion

Controlling weeds without harming flowers and other desirable plants is possible using a combination of manual weeding, organic mulch, corn gluten meal, organic herbicides, and spot treatments. It’s important to choose the method that is appropriate for the situation and to use caution when using any herbicide. With proper care and attention, it’s possible to maintain a healthy and weed-free garden.