The claim “THIS burns weeds in 1 day! They NEVER grow again” is almost certainly an exaggeration.
No homemade spray or common weed killer can truthfully guarantee that weeds “never grow again.” Whether a weed returns depends on its species, root system, and whether new seeds are present in the soil.
Here are some common claims and what the evidence says:
- Vinegar: Household vinegar can damage or kill the leaves of young weeds, but it often doesn’t kill the roots of established or perennial weeds, so they may regrow.
- Salt: Salt can kill plants, but it also persists in the soil and can make it difficult for desirable plants to grow. It’s generally not recommended for garden beds.
- Boiling water: This can kill the above-ground parts of many weeds, especially in cracks in pavement, but deep-rooted weeds may come back.
- Commercial herbicides: Some are more effective against the roots of certain weeds, but even these do not guarantee weeds will “never” return because new seeds can germinate later.
If your goal is long-term weed control, the most effective approach usually combines:
- Pulling or digging out weeds, including as much of the root as possible.
- Applying mulch to suppress new weed growth.
- Preventing weeds from setting seed.
- Using an appropriate herbicide only when needed and according to the label instructions.
If you tell me what type of weeds you’re trying to eliminate (for example, dandelions, crabgrass, bindweed, or weeds growing in gravel, a lawn, or a vegetable garden), I can suggest the most effective and least damaging approach.
