How to Kill Weeds Permanently : Get Rid of Weeds Forever

9  comments

What Kills Your Weeds Permanently?

Bye bye weeds...

Oh boy, do I have a story to tell you! It's about a never-ending battle between us and those pesky little things called weeds. They seem to pop up everywhere and anywhere, don't they?

They grow in driveways, paving, gravel even artificial grass! But fear not, my friend! I'm here to guide you on your quest to rid your garden of those unwelcome guests permanently. 

Now, let me tell you, it's not going to be a walk in the park, but it's definitely doable with a little bit of elbow grease and a lot of determination. So, buckle up, grab your gardening gloves, and get ready to say goodbye to those pesky weeds for good!

Need a strong weed killer?

What's the best weed killer that kills everything?

Best for clearing large areas: Extra Strong | Buy Now

Best for a small amount of weeds: Doff | Buy now

Best for paths, patios & driveways: Triple Action | Buy now

Best for lawns: Shake no Rake | Buy now

What is a weed?

According to the dictionary, a weed is an "unwanted" plant that's in competition with the ones you actually want to keep. But truth be told, a weed is anything that grows where you don't want it to grow! It's like that friend who always shows up uninvited and overstays their welcome.

Now, let's get one thing straight - weeds are a natural part of the ecosystem, and they have their own purpose, like providing food and shelter to animals and insects.

But if you're determined to rid your garden or lawn of these unwanted guests, you'll need to put in some consistent effort and use a combination of strategies.

And let's be real, these weeds come in all shapes and sizes, from those pesky brambles and ivy that the previous homeowner planted and cared for, to those little plants that pop up in the cracks of your paving or driveway.

So, gear up, and let's tackle these little rascals once and for all!

Ah, weeds, the bane of every gardener's existence! 

But did you know that not all weeds are created equal? Perennial weeds like dandelions have root systems that run deep, making them tricky to eliminate. But fear not, my friend! With a little persistence, you can successfully manage them and show them who's boss!

Annual weeds like chickweed and hairy bittercress are a bit easier to kill, but beware - they can still come back to haunt you if not properly dealt with before they spread their seeds. It's like a game of whack-a-mole - just when you think you've won, they pop up somewhere else!

Now, here's a fun fact: some trees and woody perennials can also be considered weeds! But don't forget, all plants have a role to play in the ecosystem. It's just a matter of keeping them in check.

But let's face it, managing weeds is a never-ending battle. You can't stop nature, nor should you want to. Instead, focus on solving the underlying problems and don't procrastinate - because let's be real, weeds are a gardener's worst enemy!

So, put on your gardening gloves and get to work, my friend.

Your healthy, weed-free garden or lawn awaits!

Is pulling weeds a waste of time?

Oh, weeds, why must you make our lives so difficult?!

Controlling these little guys can be quite the challenge, especially when it comes to those stubborn perennial weeds like ground elder, horsetail, and bindweed. With their deep root systems, removing them completely can feel like an impossible task, and they always seem to come back for more!

And don't even get me started on those annual weeds. They spread their seeds like it's their day job, making it feel like you're playing a never-ending game of whack-a-mole.

But wait, it gets worse!

Even if you do successfully manage to rid your garden or lawn of these pesky plants, they can easily sneak back in through the wind, pets, or even your nosy neighbour's garden.

So, what's the solution? 

Dedication and persistence, my friend! Controlling weeds is no easy feat, but with a bit of determination and a lot of hard work, you can show those little guys who's boss. Keep at it, and before you know it, you'll have a healthy, happy garden or lawn, weed-free!


What stops weeds from growing back?

Want to know the most effective way to tackle those pesky weeds? Prevention, prevention, prevention! That's right - by taking a proactive approach to weed management, you can save yourself a whole lot of time, money, and headaches down the road.

So, how can you prevent these little guys from taking over your garden? By following some simple best practices, like planning and maintaining your garden properly.

Take the time to prepare your soil and use good quality mulch or weed control fabric to help suppress weed growth. And when it comes to watering, make sure to use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to avoid watering the weeds as well.

Sure, it may take a little extra effort in the beginning, but trust us, it's worth it. By preventing weeds from establishing themselves in the first place, you'll be able to enjoy a healthy and thriving garden without the constant battle against those sneaky little buggers.

So, get out there and give your garden some love!

  • Use thick weed control fabric under new paths, patios & driveways.
  • Use weed control sand for the gaps between block paving or driveways.
  • New weed growth should be controlled as soon as possible (kill it ASAP!)
  • Bare soil will be quickly colonised by weeds: plant in it it, mulch it, cover it or lose it.

Let's talk about the sneaky culprits behind pesky weeds: weed seeds.

Weed seeds are like little time bombs waiting to sprout at the first opportunity. If you disturb the soil, you might unwittingly wake them up and spark a weed apocalypse.

To avoid this nightmare scenario, skip the high-powered tillers and cultivators when planting in a new area. Instead, try planting seeds in compost mounds above ground or use seedlings and soil bags.

Another super effective way to prevent weeds is by using a layer of mulch. It's like tucking your soil in for a nice nap and preventing any light from getting through to help those sneaky seeds sprout.

You can use all sorts of materials for mulching, like cardboard, newspaper, or straw. These will eventually break down and nourish your soil, which is a win-win for both you and your garden.

If you want to up your weed-prevention game even more, try using a physical barrier. You can use a plastic tarp or an old carpet to prevent weed growth, but the most long-lasting option is to use weed control fabric beneath any new paths, patios, or driveways.

Keep in mind that no physical barrier lasts forever, so stay vigilant and keep up with weed prevention efforts to keep your garden looking sharp.


What kills weeds permanently naturally?

Ready to get your DIY on? You might be tempted to whip up your own weed killer using common household ingredients, but before you go mixing up a storm, it's important to know the facts.

While homemade weed killers made from vinegar, salt, or baking soda may work to kill the top growth of weeds, they are not effective at killing the entire plant, including the roots.

Additionally, these methods can also harm other plants in the surrounding area, as well as beneficial insects and microbes in the soil.

If you're looking for a natural weed killer that's effective and safe, there are commercial options available that use ingredients such as citric acid, clove oil, and corn gluten meal. These products are specifically designed to kill weeds without harming the environment or other plants.

Alternatively, you can use the tried and true method of pulling weeds by hand or using a weeding tool. It may take a bit more effort, but it's the most effective and eco-friendly way to keep your garden weed-free.

So put down the vinegar and step away from the salt shaker, and opt for a safer and more reliable solution to rid your garden of those pesky weeds.

Does salt kill weeds forever?

Are you tired of pesky weeds growing between the cracks of your patio or driveway? Look no further than your own kitchen pantry for a solution - salt!

Yes, you heard it right. Salt can be a natural weed killer that works wonders on small, weak, or newly emerged weeds. However, it won't be as effective on perennials or deep-rooted weeds.

Sprinkle salt over those unwanted weeds, and they'll soon be a thing of the past. Just be patient, as it may take some time for the salt to work its magic.

But keep in mind that salt should only be used on surfaces where you don't intend to replant, as it persists in the soil. So this homemade weed killer is best used on paths, driveways, patios, and the like.

Keep in mind that while salt may be a cost-effective solution for small areas, it may end up being more expensive than commercial weed killers in the long run.

Does vinegar kill weeds forever?

Well, well, well, it turns out that vinegar is not the miracle weed killer that we thought it was! Although it will kill some types of weeds, it won't get rid of them permanently.

Vinegar is an acid-based weed killer that will melt away the top part of the weed, leaving the roots intact. Given time, your weeds will regrow, and you'll be back to square one.

Now, some people swear by horticultural vinegar, which is a more potent version of regular vinegar. This type of vinegar contains up to 30% acetic acid, which makes it more effective than the regular stuff. However, it's still an acid-based weed killer that won't affect the roots of the weed, so your weeds will regrow.

So, the verdict is in: vinegar, horticultural or otherwise, doesn't kill weeds permanently. If you're looking for a natural, homemade weed killer that actually works, you're better off trying some of the other options out there.

Does bleach kill weeds forever?

Let me tell you something important - bleach is not the weed killer you're looking for! This rumor might have started on social media or in a magazine, but it's just not true. Bleach isn't effective on weeds, and worse, it's bad for the environment, humans, insects, and animals.

Sure, bleach is a great cleaner and disinfectant, but when it comes to weeds, there are safer and more effective options out there. And just like vinegar, if bleach does work, it only burns away the visible part of the weed, leaving the roots behind - so those pesky weeds will come back again!

Does boiling hot water kill weeds forever?

Who knew that a humble kettle could be a secret weapon against weeds? Boiling water is a surprisingly effective homemade weed killer - it's cheap, natural, and super easy to use. Best of all, it works permanently on small, weak, annual weeds.

Larger, more stubborn weeds will require a stronger treatment, but if you have some small weeds that need to go, boiling water is the way to do it. Just boil your kettle, take it outside, and pour the water directly over the weeds. That's it!

But a word of caution: boiling water is hot, and it can burn. Be careful when you're using it, and keep kids and pets away from the area.

Boiling water won't work on every weed, but it's worth a shot. So next time you're making a cuppa, take the kettle outside and see if you can put those pesky weeds in their place.

Kill weeds on hard surfaces.

Do you want to keep your driveways, patios, and paths looking spick and span? Then preventing weed growth on these surfaces is essential!

Not only can weeds cause unsightly damage to the surface material, but they can also spread quickly, making them a real headache to remove permanently.

Thankfully, there is an effective way to prevent weed growth on hard surfaces: weed control fabric. By laying down a thick layer of this fabric before installing your new driveway or path, you'll create a physical barrier that prevents weeds from taking root and growing.

For extra protection, it's recommended to use two layers of fabric.

But what if you already have weeds growing on your hard surfaces?

Don't worry - there are still options available. 

You may need to use a herbicide or other weed-killing product to remove them quickly and effectively. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully to avoid any damage to your surface material.

Kill weeds forever on your path

Tired of pesky weeds popping up on your path and ruining your garden's vibe? We hear you! Thankfully, there are a few ways to get rid of them for good.

Manual control is one option: grab a small garden knife or hose and dig the weeds out, then fill in any cracks with weed control sand. It may take some time and elbow grease, but it's a great way to keep your path looking pristine.

If you prefer a quicker fix, chemical control might be the way to go. GoodGrow weed killer is a top-rated product that's sure to do the trick. Simply spray it on a warm, sunny day and watch those weeds shrivel up from the roots.

Plus, we've got an exclusive discount just for you! Click the link below to get 20% off and say goodbye to those pesky weeds for good.


Kill weeds forever on your block paving

First up, manual control. Get a hoe or similar tool and dig out those weeds by their roots. For an extra kick, try spraying them with horticultural vinegar or smothering them in salt

Just be careful not to go overboard with the salt - we're trying to kill the weeds, not everything else!

If you're looking for a more heavy-duty solution, consider a chemical weed killer like GoodGrow. This stuff is specially formulated to work on block paving and will kill those weeds right down to the roots. Plus, it's long-lasting, so you won't have to worry about those weeds coming back anytime soon.

For even more tips and tricks on how to keep your block paving weed-free, check out our article on the subject. And don't forget, as a special treat for our readers, click here to get an exclusive 20% off GoodGrow!


Kill weeds forever on your driveway

Oh no, weeds on your driveway! Don't worry, we've got you covered with these tips for getting rid of those pesky plants for good.

Manual control:
If you're feeling up for some physical activity, grab a weed flame gun to scorch those weeds, spray them with vinegar, or dig them out with a handy garden tool. If you want to go the extra mile, cover them with tarpaulin or carpet to suffocate them.

Chemical control:
For a more hands-off approach, try our combination weed killer and sprayer. This powerful solution not only kills weeds down to the roots but also prevents regrowth, leaving your driveway looking pristine.


Kill weeds forever on your wall

Oh boy, those pesky weeds just keep popping up everywhere! But fear not, we've got you covered when it comes to getting rid of those wall weeds for good.

When it comes to manual control, there are a few things you can try. You can make a simple vinegar solution by mixing vinegar and water, and then spray it directly onto the weeds.

You can also use a gardening knife to pick the weeds out by hand or try burning them with a flame thrower - just be careful not to burn down the whole house in the process!

If manual control isn't doing the trick, it might be time to try a chemical solution. Glyphosate is a systemic weed killer that's designed to take care of those pesky weeds once and for all. It gets right down to the root and kills 99% of weeds, so you can enjoy your beautiful, weed-free wall.


Kill weeds forever on your patio

Say goodbye to pesky weeds on your patio once and for all! Here are some tips to get you started.

Manual control:
Prevention is key, so regularly spraying vinegar solution on your patio can help stop weeds from popping up in the first place. For existing weeds, use a gardening knife to carefully pick them out or use a flame thrower to burn them away.

Once they're gone, fill in the empty spaces with weed control sand to help keep the area weed-free.

Chemical control:
For a simple and effective solution, try Good Grow weed killer. It's affordable, long-lasting, safe to use, and works wonders on patios. Say goodbye to weeds and hello to a beautiful, weed-free patio!


Kill weeds on your lawn.

A weed-free lawn is every homeowner's dream, but the battle against those pesky invaders is a never-ending one. Luckily, prevention is always the best cure.

So, what can you do? First, make sure your lawn has proper drainage and nutrients. Apply a good-quality fertilizer at least once a year to give your grass the strength it needs to outcompete those weeds.

Next, beware of bare spots! Those are like open invitations for weeds to invade. So, cover any bald patches with a suitable fast growing grass seed, and keep your lawn looking lush and beautiful.

TOP TIP: You can read an in depth article about the perfect lawn here.

Nobody likes a lawn that's covered in weeds, so it's important to keep them under control. And the good news is that there are plenty of ways to do it!

Manual control:
If you're looking for a natural way to eliminate weeds, then try using a daisy picker or pulling them out by hand. And when it comes to lawn moss, it's all about aeration, spiking, improved drainage, and raking.

You'll want to make sure you're pulling out the whole weed, including the roots, to prevent it from coming back. And as for lawn moss, aeration, spiking, and raking help to create an environment where the grass can grow, making it more difficult for moss to take hold.

Chemical control:
If you're looking for a more efficient way to get rid of weeds, then consider using a weed and feed product. These products are designed to control weeds and nourish your lawn with rich nutrients.

Glyphosate gel is another option for targeted weed control. It can be applied directly to specific weeds, as it will only kill what it touches. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully to ensure you're using it safely and effectively.

Whatever method you choose, keep in mind that the key to maintaining a weed-free lawn is to stay vigilant and consistent with your efforts.

If your preparing a new lawn with seeds then how you begin and ensuring you prepare correctly you can prevent weeds from taking over your lawn, the same applies when your re-seeding too.

How to kill your lawn!

Fed up with the never-ending chores that come with maintaining a natural lawn? The constant mowing, weeding, and raking can drive anyone insane!

But don't worry, there's a trendy solution that's gaining popularity in the UK - artificial grass! While it's not everyone's cup of tea, it's a low-maintenance alternative to a traditional lawn that's worth considering.

Did you know that every lawn has a lifespan? If you haven't been taking care of yours, it may be time to start over and give your garden a fresh start! Whatever your reason for wanting to kill your lawn, we've got you covered with these tips to ensure it stays gone for good!

Manual Control:

  • Dig it up, seriously it's that easy. You can use a sod cutter or tiler to ease your physical burden but this is the fastest and tried and true method of killing grass.

Chemical control:

  • Glyphosate is the most popular choice when it comes to killing grass. It allows you to safely replant in the same area after a few weeks, perfect if you intend to replace your lawn with new turf or plan to turn it into a vegetable garden.

Kill unwanted vegetation.

Firstly, prevention is key when it comes to keeping unwanted plants from taking over. But if you're dealing with an already established plant, it can be a bit more difficult to get rid of.

You may be dealing with a plant that has deep roots and dormant seeds in the soil, which can make it extra tough to eradicate. And it's important to note that what one person considers a weed, another may cherish as a beloved plant.

For example, we have several brambles in our garden that our kids love to harvest fruit from, while some of our friends have chosen to remove them due to their sharp thorns.

If you're looking to remove an unwanted plant, you may want to try manual methods like digging it up by the roots or cutting it back regularly. However, keep in mind that missing even a small part of the plant can lead to regrowth.

Alternatively, chemical methods like a targeted herbicide can be effective at killing specific plants. But be sure to read and follow the instructions carefully to ensure safe and effective use.

How to kill Brambles permanently

Ah, brambles... they may be tasty when they're bearing fruit, but boy can they be a hassle when they get out of hand in your garden. Here are some tips to help you manage them:

First things first, prevention is better than cure, so don't let brambles get out of control in the first place. Make sure you prune them regularly to prevent them from spreading too far.

If you're dealing with established brambles, you'll need to be persistent. They're tough plants, so it may take a few attempts to get rid of them completely.

Manual control:

  • Cut back thorny stems to about 30cm from ground level
  • Dig out the roots and bramble stump taking as much as you can.
  • If you miss any it may regrow. Burn the stems, do not compost.

Chemical control

  • Cut back the stems but leave plenty leaf and green area to absorb the weed killer
  • Spray good grow weed killer over the green leafs and stems (April - August)
  • Leave for 2-4 weeks if regrowth occurs apply again
  • Once brown and dead dig out and dispose of or leave to rot away.

How to kill Ivy permanently

Ah, ivy! The lush green foliage can add an enchanting touch to any garden. But sometimes, it can get a little out of hand. If you've got ivy growing on hard surfaces like walls or in your garden (excluding grass), and you're ready to say "bye-bye" to it, then we've got some tips for you.

Before we get into the good stuff, it's worth noting that ivy on trees can be a different story. Ivy can actually benefit the wildlife that call trees their home. So, before you start chopping away at ivy on your trees, it might be worth consulting a professional to assess the situation.

Okay, now back to the ivy on hard surfaces! Here are a few ways to get rid of it:

Manual control:

  • Cut back and dig up all stems and woody roots.
  • Alternatively cut back all top growth, lay weed control fabric plus 15cm of bark, leave for 2 seasons.

Chemical control:

  • Use good grow sprayer system and good squeeze of dish soap.
  • Coat leaves and stems ensuring not to spray on other plants
  • Leave for 1 month, if regrowth appears reapply treatment

Ah, Ivy always seems to find a way back, no matter how many times you try to get rid of it. Whether you choose to go the chemical or manual route, removing ivy permanently is a tall order. 

Its waxy surface makes it difficult for weed killers to penetrate, and it has a tendency to regrow and spread like wildfire if even a tiny piece of root is left behind.

The key is to be patient and thorough in your removal efforts - don't give that pesky ivy a chance to make a comeback!

How to kill Horsetail forever

Horsetail, also known as mare's tail, is a stubborn and invasive weed that can quickly take over your garden or yard. It has deep roots and grows tall, making it difficult to control.

But don't worry, there are several methods to get rid of this pesky weed for good!

Manual control:

The best way to control horsetail is by hand pulling or digging it out, making sure to remove as much of the root system as possible. However, this can be a tedious and time-consuming process, especially if you have a large infestation.

Using a hoe or similar tool to dig out the horsetail can help speed up the process. Make sure to dispose of the weed properly to prevent any remaining roots from taking hold.

Chemical control:

Herbicides can be an effective way to control horsetail, but it can take time and repeated applications to fully get rid of it. Glyphosate-based herbicides are often recommended, as they will kill the weed down to the root. However, be cautious as glyphosate can harm other plants as well.

Remember, with a bit of persistence and the right methods, you can get rid of horsetail and keep it from coming back!

How to kill Ground Elder permanently

Ground elder, also known as bishop's weed, is a pesky weed that can be difficult to get rid of once it takes root in your garden. It spreads quickly and can easily out-compete other plants for nutrients, water, and space. But fear not, there are ways to tackle this problem!

Manual control:

The first step is to dig up as much of the ground elder as possible. Make sure you remove all of the roots, as even small pieces left in the ground can regrow. Be diligent about removing any new growth as soon as you see it. You can also try covering the affected area with a barrier to prevent it from getting sunlight and growing. Some gardeners have found success using old carpets or black plastic sheeting for this purpose.

Chemical control:

If manual control isn't cutting it, chemical control may be necessary. Glyphosate-based weed killers are effective at killing ground elder, but they can also harm other plants in your garden.

To avoid this, you can try painting the glyphosate directly onto the leaves of the ground elder using a small brush or sponge. This will ensure that only the ground elder is affected.

Another option is to use a selective weed killer that targets broadleaf plants like ground elder, but not grass or other desirable plants in your garden.

Remember, persistence is key when dealing with ground elder. It may take multiple treatments over the course of several growing seasons to fully eradicate it from your garden. But with a little effort and determination, you can reclaim your space from this stubborn weed!

Want to kill Ground Elder? You need this weed killer.

How to get rid of Stinging Nettles permanently?

Ah, stinging nettles, the bane of any gardener's existence!

While they can be a nuisance, they actually have some beneficial qualities, such as being a great source of food for butterflies and other insects.

However, if you're looking to get rid of them, here are some methods you can use:

Manual Control: 

The most effective way to get rid of stinging nettles manually is to dig them up by the root. Make sure to wear gloves and protective clothing to avoid getting stung.

Use a digging fork or spade to loosen the soil around the plant, then pull it up by the roots.

You can also cut the plant down to the ground and cover the area with cardboard or several layers of newspaper to prevent any regrowth.

Chemical Control: 

If you have a large infestation of stinging nettles, chemical control might be your best bet.

There are several herbicides available that are specifically designed to target nettles. Look for a herbicide containing glyphosate or acetic acid and make sure to follow the instructions carefully.

These herbicides will kill the nettles down to the root, but may also harm other plants in the area, so use them with caution.

Remember, while stinging nettles can be a nuisance, they also have their benefits. So if you can, try to leave a few growing in a designated area to provide food for insects and other wildlife.

Final thoughts:

Well folks, we've covered a lot of ground in our quest for a weed-free garden! From the pesky horsetail to the persistent ground elder and the stinging nettles that just won't quit, we've learned a lot about manual and chemical control methods to help us get the job done.

Remember, prevention is always the best cure, and taking care of your soil and lawn can go a long way in keeping those pesky weeds at bay. But when prevention fails, don't be afraid to get your hands dirty with manual control methods like pulling, digging, and smothering. And for those tough weeds that just won't quit, chemical control can be a lifesaver.

Just keep in mind the potential risks and always follow the instructions carefully. With a little patience and perseverance, you can have the weed-free garden of your dreams. Happy gardening!

About the author 

Chelsey

Hey there, I am founder and editor in chief here at Good Grow. I guess I've always known I was going to be a gardener. I'm on a mission to share my UK based weed control & lawn care tips with you all. If you have any queries please post in the comments below.


  • I used weed killer(Roundup)in between brick and alongside the curb. It seems to depend on the weather. If it’s raining for a week the weeds right away.

    There is another kind of weed killer do you recommend. Please let me know.

    Thank you.

    Juani

  • I had to tunnel under the edge of a residential concrete slab to repair broken plumbing. After the pipe broke, roots invaded and filled and blocked the pipes. Now the pipes are repaired and I would like to put something in the tunnel area (or in the fill dirt/sand) that will permanently block any roots from growing in this area.

    Is your Good Grow product appropriate for this? If not, what do you recommend?

    I have a big bag of rock salt, and thought about seeding it throughout the fill dirt, but it seems like there would be insufficient moisture to “melt” and distribute the salt. I don’t want roots that just grow through between the salt crystals.

  • Hello,I read differing quotes.Some say the spray keeps out weeds for 1 year and then I read that it kills the weeds forever.Can you tell me which is the truth

    • Weed killers only kill actively growing weeds, so you spray it onto the weeds, they die. You cannot stop nature, seeds will blow in from neighbours or drop from your previous weeds, at some point something will grow back. If you have bare patches of soil weeds will grow in them. Keep your hard surfaces clean and free from debris, make sure you use a joint sealant in the gaps of pavers, re-seed bare patches in your lawn and of course pick out any small weeds you see before they become a problem.

  • {"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}

    Related Posts

    Gardening on a Shoestring and a Chuckle
    Does Boiling Hot Water Kill Bamboo?
    Does Vinegar Kill Bamboo?
    Does Salt Kill Bamboo?
    Does Bleach Kill Bamboo?
    Does Bleach Kill Nettles?
    >