Eco-friendly Ways to Kill Weeds in Your Yard

1. Mulching
   Mulching is a time-tested and eco-friendly method to keep weeds at bay. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips, straw, or compost, around your garden beds and between plants. This layer not only suppresses weed growth but also helps retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. As the mulch breaks down, it enriches the soil, improving its health.
2. Hand Pulling
   Good old-fashioned manual labor is a reliable way to remove weeds without resorting to chemicals. Invest in a good pair of gloves and a hand weeder, and periodically walk through your yard, pulling weeds as you go. Be sure to get the entire root system to prevent regrowth. It's a great workout and an excellent way to connect with your garden.
3. Boiling Water
   Boiling water is a simple yet effective method for killing weeds on driveways, sidewalks, and other hardscape areas. Pouring boiling water directly on the weeds will scald and kill them. Just be careful not to splash it on desirable plants nearby, as it can harm them too.
4. Vinegar
   White vinegar, with its high acidity, can be used as a natural weed killer. Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it directly to the weeds on a sunny day. The sun will help intensify the vinegar's effects. Remember that vinegar can also damage or kill surrounding plants, so use it cautiously.
5. Salt
   Salt can be a potent weed killer when used sparingly and with caution. Sprinkle a small amount of salt directly onto weeds growing in cracks or crevices on hardscapes, where it won't affect nearby plants. Be cautious when using salt, as it can harm soil quality and affect plants in large quantities.
6. Corn Gluten Meal
   Corn gluten meal is a natural pre-emergent herbicide that prevents sprouting weed seeds. Spread it over your garden beds in early spring before weeds can grow. Not only does it inhibit weed growth, but it also adds nitrogen to the soil.
7. Homemade Organic Weed Killers
   You can create your eco-friendly weed killer using household items like dish soap, baking soda, and salt. Mix these ingredients with water and apply the solution directly to the weeds. These homemade remedies are safe for the environment and won't harm your family or pets.
8. Weed Fabric or Cardboard
   Laying down weed fabric or cardboard sheets before mulching or planting can prevent weed growth by blocking sunlight and impeding their ability to sprout. This method is especially effective when you want to establish new garden beds.