A common homemade weed-killer recipe that avoids commercial herbicides is a vinegar-based spray, but the claim that it will “dry everything in 2 hours” is usually exaggerated. It may burn the leaves of small weeds quickly, but results vary and it often does not kill the roots, so weeds can grow back.
A simple non-commercial approach:
- White vinegar (higher-strength horticultural vinegar works better than kitchen vinegar)
- A small amount of dish soap can help the liquid stick to leaves
Use caution:
- Vinegar can damage grass, flowers, vegetables, and other plants you want to keep.
- It can affect soil acidity if used heavily.
- Avoid spraying near desirable plants, and avoid windy days.
For long-term weed control, methods like mulching, hand removal, or improving ground cover are often more effective because they address regrowth.
If you tell me where the weeds are (lawn, driveway cracks, garden beds, or patio), I can suggest the safest method for that area.
