Homemade Weed Killers for Flowers and Vegetables

Soap-Based Weed Killers

• A common formula that not only kills weeds when applied directly to the plant but also hinders insect infestation consists of 2 to 3 tbsp. of liquid soap added to 1 gallon of water. You can substitute powdered soap for liquid, using a formula of 1/4 cup powdered soap to 1 gallon warm water. If you do not have access to liquid or powdered soap, turn to your bathroom for a bar of soap. Grate the soap until you have 1/4 cup. Bring 1 gallon of water to a boil and add the soap. Turn off the stove, and when the soap dissolves, let cool to room temperature before adding to the sprayer. Make sure you agitate the mixture well before applying to weeds. Annual weeds wither immediately using a soap-based weed killer. You may have to apply repeated doses to perennial weeds.

Vinegar-Based Weed Killers

• For best results, use a vinegar concentrate that contains 20 percent acetic acid, which creates an effective weed killer. You can spray the concentrated vinegar, available at garden and feed stores, directly on the plant for best results. Vinegar works by removing the weed's natural oils and making the soil extremely acidic, thus creating a hostile environment for growth. Do not get spray concentrated vinegar on vegetables or flowers, as concentrated vinegar will wipe them out too.

Citrus-Based Weed Killers

• Concentrations of lemon or orange oils have proven to kill weeds, but the cost is much higher than most homemade products. If you use a lemon or orange oil-based weed killer, mix it using a formula of 1 oz. essential oil to 1 gallon warm water. Since citrus oils kill by creating an acidic environment, the best application method is to apply directly to the weed, letting the acid dry out and destroy the pesky plant.

Cautions

• When working with soap-, vinegar- or citrus-based products, wear eye protection and gloves. Avoid exposure to the skin and wash your hands thoroughly when finished. Do not use 5-percent kitchen vinegar as a weed killer because the acetic acid concentration is too low for effective weed kill.