Weeds, much like moss, can pose a significant issue in gardens as they infiltrate the nooks and crannies of patio slabs, making them challenging to eradicate. The battle against weeds can often feel like a losing one. Garden enthusiasts may spend an entire afternoon on their knees, clearing paths and patios of these unwanted plants, only for them to re-emerge in a few days.
However, one woman insists that patio weeds are “easy” to eliminate using her technique – which involves a single natural ingredient. While many typically opt for white vinegar to tackle patio weeds, there’s another household staple that gardeners can utilise, and it’s less likely to inflict harm on plants and lawns.
Instagram user @thatmamarealtor, also known as Jessica Nakamura, advocates the use of baking soda for this task, reports the Express. She showcased her method in an Instagram video, which Jessica captioned: “This is an easy way to permanently get rid of the weeds between your patio stones.”
She started the video by stating: “If you need a simple way to get rid of the weeds between your patio try using baking soda.” In the clip, Jessica dusts the area of her patio where weeds are proliferating with baking soda, employing a broom to spread the powder throughout the crevices.
The subsequent step is to dampen it with your garden hose. After “24 hours”, Jessica asserted that the weeds would be dead and could be removed “so easily” and “won’t grow back”. Those questioning the effectiveness of baking soda for patio weed control received an update from Jessica in the comments, as she noted: “One month later, patio is still weed-free and grass is still green.”
Baking soda, also known by its chemical name sodium bicarbonate, is adept at banishing weeds due to its high salinity. This high salt concentration hampers a weed’s survival by dehydrating it and preventing regrowth.
After the above-ground part dies, the weed can be pulled out by the roots easily, reducing its chances of reappearing in your garden. Though excess soil salinity may endanger nearby non-weed flora, this issue can be resolved with a thorough watering or natural dilution via rainfall that dispels any lingering baking soda traces.