Ask Annie: Away With Walkway Weeds

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/ask-annie-away-with-walkway-weeds.html

posted by Annie B. Bond May 22, 2008 5:00 pm

filed under: Blogs, Ask Annie, Lawns & Gardens

3 comments

Dear Annie,

Do you have a good non-toxic way to kill the weeds that are growing up between my stone walkway?

Thanks,
Pat B, TN

Dear Pat,

It is always convenient to forget about weeds, especially the ones that grow up between stones and masonry in walkways and patios. I remember my stepfather spending hours in the summer pulling weeds out of the pebble driveway. He’d actually lie down to do it. I hope he had some rest and relaxation benefit, because otherwise, what a way to spend a lovely Saturday afternoon!

A thought occurred to me the other day about the weeds poking up on a stone walk I have, and that is to sprinkle the gaps between the stones with a low growing flowering groundcover like thyme. This way the “weeds” would be colorful and add a lot to the general ambiance. This technique would be in the lines of a “be smart” approach, such as changing the material of the walkway or patio to block the weeds to begin with.

Otherwise, the best I can offer for helping to remove weeds from these high attention areas is to pour straight 5 percent white distilled vinegar on the weeds (make sure not to pour this on flowers), or simple boiling water. Both have worked for me. Be persistent!

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Ann M. says
Jul 16, 2009 9:18 AM

If you really don't want any vegetation growing between the cracks of your walkways, patios, driveways, etc., the best way I have found is to pour white vinegar directly into the cracks. The vinegar lowers the ph to the degree that even weeds won't grow. You've kill the weeds already growing, prevent them from returning for several months, and don't harm animals, insects or humans and it's CHEAP. The ph will eventually return to its previous level eventually. Just remember to add the vinegar to only the areas you want vegetation free.

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Timothy Ignas says
Jul 2, 2008 2:50 PM

Yes, weeds, when decomposing---provide food for good bacteria and worms.

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Shamana L. says
Jun 13, 2008 5:25 AM

Can weeds be fed to a worm compost bin if they haven't been chemically treated?

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