There are several natural ways to control the growth of weeds:
1. Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips, straw, or compost, to suppress weed growth. Mulch blocks sunlight, preventing weeds from germinating and reaching the surface.
2. Pulling by hand: Regularly inspect your garden and manually remove weeds by pulling them from the roots. Be sure to pull out the entire root system to prevent regrowth.
3. Boiling water: Pouring boiling water directly onto weeds can effectively kill them. This method is best suited for weeds growing in pavement cracks or between stones, as the hot water can damage nearby plants.
4. Vinegar: Household vinegar with at least 5% acetic acid can be an effective natural herbicide. Spray vinegar directly on the leaves and stems of weeds, making sure to avoid desirable plants as vinegar can be non-selective and harm other vegetation.
5. Salt: Sprinkling salt on weeds can dehydrate and kill them. However, use caution as salt can also damage the soil and affect nearby plants, so it is best to target this method for areas where you don't want any vegetation to grow.
Remember, consistency is key when using natural methods to control weeds. It may take time and multiple applications to achieve the desired results.