Managing weeds in your garden is a common challenge, but it becomes even more daunting when they infiltrate the crevices of brick pavers, as well as rock, gravel, and stone. Whatever the material, permanently getting rid of weeds between pavers can be challenging based on the type of weed and the space involved.
So, before diving into weed control methods, it’s a good idea to identify the types of paver weeds present. Resources like Weed Wise, which offers over 300 weed profiles, can assist in this crucial step.
How to permanently get rid of weeds between pavers
Here are six different ways to destroy the weeds growing in your pavers.
1. Pull the weeds out
The best way to control weeds is to pull them out manually (roots and all). This is easier when you have weeds between stepping stones or pavers that are widely spaced apart because you have more room to dig and pull them up.
But if your pavers are close together, or it’s proving too hard to manually remove weeds, you could consider some of the other methods here – or even a combination to make the weed removal more permanent.
2. Pesticides and organic weed killer
Pulling out weeds may not be practical in tight spaces such as between brick pavers and gravel. That’s when using pesticides or organic weed killers becomes a viable option.
Opting for organic alternatives ensures the absence of harmful chemicals while maintaining potency against weeds. Just make sure you read the instructions carefully before you begin.
3. The vinegar method for killing weeds
You can use vinegar to kill weeds between pavers and in gravel thanks to its acidity. Look for distilled white vinegar with a high acetic acid concentration (around 5-20%). Applying vinegar directly to weeds on a dry, sunny day is recommended to ensure thorough coverage. However, vinegar can also harm other plants, so avoid spraying any you want to keep.
Vinegar works particularly well on young, annual weeds, and applying it multiple times is recommended.
How to kill weeds between pavers with vinegar
- Choose the right type of vinegar with a high acetic acid concentration (around 5-20%). The higher the concentration, the more effective it will be.
- For a basic vinegar weed killer, you can use undiluted vinegar. Add a small amount of dish soap to help the vinegar adhere to the plant surfaces for a more potent solution.
4. The boiling water method
Boiling water is another cost-effective solution to permanently stop weeds from growing in pavers. Simply boil water in the kettle and carefully pour the boiling water over the weeds.
How to use the boiling water method for weeds between pavers
- Heat water in a kettle or pot until it reaches boiling point. The hotter the water, the more effective it will kill the weeds.
- Transfer to a watering can or a heat-resistant jug works well. Ensure that the container has a spout to direct the water precisely.
- Wear gloves and eye protection to shield yourself from splashes or steam.
- Locate the weeds you want to eliminate, and slowly pour the boiling water over them. Direct the water at the base of the weeds to ensure thorough coverage.
- For stubborn or persistent weeds, you may need to repeat the process. Keep a watchful eye on the treated area, and reapply boiling water as new weeds emerge.
5. The salt method
Salt is another natural weed control option. It works by dehydrating the plants, so it’s crucial to only use it on the affected area. It’s also important to use salt sparingly to avoid soil salinity, as excessive salt can negatively impact the soil and surrounding plants.
Sprinkling a small amount of salt directly onto weeds or in the spaces between rocks where weeds are growing is recommended.
How to use salt as a weed killer
- Sprinkle a small amount of salt directly onto the weeds or in the spaces between pavers where weeds grow.
- Avoid using too much salt, which can lead to soil salinity, affecting other nearby plants.
- Pour hot water over the salted area to dissolve the salt and help it penetrate the soil.
- Monitor the treated area and reapply salt as needed to control weed growth.
6. Cardboard weed barriers
For more extreme cases of weed infestation between pavers, you may consider starting again with a cardboard weed barrier.
Here’s how:
- Begin by clearing the area of existing weeds and debris.
- Choose thick, durable cardboard or layer corrugated cardboard, covering the weedy areas entirely.
- Wet the cardboard to make it pliable and encourage it to conform to the ground.
- Cover the cardboard with a layer of mulch or additional gravel for added weight and aesthetic appeal.
- Regular monitoring is essential to promptly address any signs of weeds attempting to grow through the barrier.
Permanently banishing weeds from rocks, gravel, and stones involves a tailored approach that combines natural solutions, preventive measures, and vigilant maintenance. So you may find that using a few of these strategies allows you to get rid of weeds between pavers permanently.
Related articles:
- How to lay pavers
- Paved outdoor area ideas: 7 ways to get started
- The best plants to grow between your backyard pavers
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