There are many different types of natural weed killers on the market. Most work by spraying an acidic content on unwanted weeds, changing the pH of the plant enough to damage and kill it. Weed killers that are acid-based are not selective and can affect nearby plants if they come in direct contact with it, so care should be taken when used.
Acetic Acid (Vinegar) Vinegar contains acetic acid which works by burning the leaves and stems. Vinegar will kill or harm any above ground plant that it comes in contact with so be careful when using. What makes it safe for the environment is the fact that it will not transfer into the roots or soil and only affect the leaves and stem of the plant as long as you only spray the plant and do not get too much on the ground.
To avoid damaging or killing your plants that you do not want affected, you may consider wiping the solution on the leafy parts of the weeds you wish to kill instead of spraying them. If you prefer to apply using this method be sure to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Corn gluten meal is a by-product of corn processing and milling. It is a natural pre-emergent, it works by absorbing surface moisture needed by tiny germinating seeds. It does not affect established plants, since they have a developed root system and can reach water below the effects of the corn gluten meal.
Corn gluten meal inhibits growth of dandelions, crabgrass and other annual weeds. The gluten meal contains nitrogen and protein. When using it as a pre-emergent natural weed killer, make sure it is at least 60 percent corn gluten meal.
Store Bought Organic Weed Killers There are variety of organic weed control products for available. Make sure to select ones that are all organic, meaning no chemicals have been added to them. Most retail organic weed killers are either vinegar based, natural oil based or made from herbicidal soap. They all work in the same way and are all safe for the environment.
The best choice for store bought natrual weed killers may be WeedPharm, which is extremely effective and is the only food-grade herbicide currently on the market. It’s 20% acetic acid and it works the same way as the other organic herbicide sprays. It can also be injected into the taproots of dandelions or the base of the plant using a syringe. The best thing about this method is that you can kill dandelions fully in any weather, and you can kill dandelions even if they’re coming up in the center of other plants or in your lawn.
Kurt Borglum
165 Pine St. Lake Mary, FL 32746