A Natural Herbicide

Gardeners’ Corner

Do You Have Weeds? Crabgrass?

Try Vinegar as an Herbicide!

Vinegar is acetic acid which can be used as a natural herbicide. Household vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution which is effective against young, tender weeds, and annual weeds like crabgrass. Spray it directly on the foliage and try to totally saturate the weed without too much runoff. Within 24 hours the treated foliage will turn brown. However, the roots will not be killed entirely and the weed may reappear within a few weeks. Repeated applications will be necessary to entirely kill the root. Stronger concentrations of acetic acid work more effectively and will work on perennial and more mature weeds with repeated applications. Stronger acetic acid solutions can be found for home canning or organic products such as “Fast Acting Burn Out” can be found at your local garden center. Don’t apply if rain is expected or before watering since water breaks down acetic acid. Avoid spraying on windy days, to prevent drift from hurting other plants.


Carole Henry
The “Potted” Alley
Email: thepottedalley@gmail.com