Learn how to use household table salt to kill stubborn weeds.

), salt (or sodium chloride) is a natural solution that works well on pesky weeds.

Can Salt be Used to Kill Weeds?

Dandelions being sprayed with a spray bottle in a sunny field.

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In short, salt is an effective non-toxic herbicide.

However, not all salt is created equal when it comes to weed control.

Regular iodized or non-iodized table salt must be used.

A wooden spoon filled with salt against a wooden table.

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When using salt as a herbicide it must be applied carefully.

The recommended strength of the saltwater mixture depends on where you plan to apply the herbicide.

a much stronger mixture can be made such as a 2:1 or 3:1.

Dandelions growing through a crack in the pavement.

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Saltwater solutions should be applied directly to the foliage of the weed.

Avoid soaking the roots with the mixture to protect the surrounding soil and plants.

The saltwater can be applied using a spray bottle, or it can be poured from a container.

In tight-spaced flowerbeds and veggie gardens, the salt water treatment is not recommended.

Salt vs. Other Non-Toxic Herbicides

There are several other non-toxic herbicides that are popular among home gardeners.

Each has its own benefits and disadvantages, and no one option is a one-size-fits-all solution.

These vinegars, when mixed with salt and water, have the potential to control weeds well.

Boiling water can also be used to some degree of effectiveness.

Surprisingly, fire is another method of non-toxic weed control that is used by gardeners.

The fire burns the emerging weeds, causing damage at a structural level.

55-99, 2020, Butterworth-Heinemann.

doi:10.1016/B978-0-08-103017-2.00003-9

Managing Soil Salinity.

Texas A&M University AgriLife Extension.

12, 2020. doi:10.1080/15592324.2020.1832373

Homemade Weed Control - What works well (and is safe!)

and what should be avoided.Northwest Michigan Invasive Species web link.