Weeds in your driveway can be more than just an eyesore – they can actually damage the surface over time.
With the average asphalt driveway costing anywhere from $3000 to $7000 to replace,1 preventing weed growth is crucial for protecting your investment. Here are 15 effective ways to banish those pesky plants and keep your driveway weed-free.
1. Apply Boiling Water
One of the simplest and most eco-friendly ways to get rid of driveway weeds is by pouring boiling water directly onto the plants. The heat will shock the weeds and cause them to wilt and die within a few days.
Be cautious when handling boiling water to avoid injury, and avoid pouring it near desirable plants.
2. Use a Weed Burner
A weed burner, also known as a flame weeder, is a tool that uses propane gas to create a flame that can be directed at weeds. The high heat destroys the plant’s cell structure, causing it to die.
This method is quick and effective, but it should be used with caution to prevent fire hazards.
3. Pull Weeds by Hand
For small weed infestations, pulling the plants out by hand can be an effective solution. Grasp the weed at its base and pull it out, making sure to remove as much of the root system as possible.
This method is most effective when the soil is moist, as it makes it easier to remove the entire plant.
4. Apply a Vinegar Solution
Create a natural weed killer by mixing one gallon of white vinegar, one cup of salt, and one tablespoon of dish soap. Pour the solution directly onto the weeds, ensuring that the leaves are thoroughly coated.
The acetic acid in the vinegar will dry out the plants, while the salt will prevent future growth. (ref)
5. Use a Pressure Washer
A pressure washer can be used to blast weeds out of cracks and crevices in your driveway. The high-pressure water will dislodge the plants and their roots, effectively removing them.
This method is best suited for weeds growing in the gaps between pavers or concrete slabs.
6. Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide
Prevent weeds from growing in the first place by applying a pre-emergent herbicide to your driveway. These products work by creating a barrier on the soil’s surface, preventing weed seeds from germinating.
Apply the herbicide in early spring before weeds have a chance to sprout. Remember to follow proper safety protocols when using any herbicides.
7. Use a Post-Emergent Herbicide
For existing weeds, a post-emergent herbicide can be an effective solution. These products are designed to kill weeds that have already sprouted.
Look for a herbicide specifically formulated for the type of weeds growing in your driveway, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
8. Install a Weed Barrier
For gravel driveways, install a landscape fabric or geotextile material beneath the gravel to prevent weed growth while allowing water drainage.
Note: This method is not suitable for existing asphalt driveways. For asphalt, focus on sealing cracks and applying pre-emergent herbicides to vulnerable areas.
9. Use Corn Gluten Meal
Corn gluten meal is a natural herbicide that can prevent weed seeds from germinating. (ref) Spread the meal over your driveway in early spring, and water it in thoroughly.
As the corn gluten meal decomposes, it releases a protein that inhibits root growth in young weeds.
10. Apply a Baking Soda Solution
Create a simple weed killer by mixing one teaspoon of baking soda with one quart of warm water. Pour the solution directly onto the weeds, focusing on the foliage. The baking soda will disrupt the plant’s pH balance, causing it to die.
This method is best suited for small weed infestations.
11. Use a Weed Whacker
For weeds growing along the edges of your driveway, a weed whacker can be an effective tool. Trim the weeds down to ground level, and then apply a herbicide or another weed control method to prevent regrowth.
12. Apply Rock Salt
Sprinkle rock salt directly onto weeds growing in your driveway. The salt will dehydrate the plants and prevent future growth. Be cautious when using this method, as rock salt can also damage nearby desirable plants and corrode concrete surfaces.
13. Use Mulch or Gravel
Applying a thick layer of mulch or gravel to your driveway can effectively suppress weed growth. This method works by blocking sunlight and preventing weed seeds from reaching the soil surface, making it difficult for them to germinate and grow.
14. Apply a Rubbing Alcohol Solution
Create a natural weed killer by mixing two tablespoons of rubbing alcohol with one quart of water. Pour the solution directly onto the weeds, ensuring that the leaves are thoroughly coated. The alcohol will dry out the plants and cause them to die.
15. Maintain a Regular Weeding Routine
The most effective way to prevent weeds from taking over your driveway is to maintain a regular weeding routine. Set aside time each week to remove any weeds that have sprouted, using one of the methods listed above.
Consistency is key in keeping your driveway weed-free.
Source:
1. Angi
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.