Weeds are the bane of every gardener’s existence, popping up in pathways, overtaking garden beds, and competing with beloved plants for precious nutrients.
But Team Clean has a surprising solution that can help you tackle these pesky intruders using something you probably already have in your kitchen—potato water.
The trick is simple, the next time you boil potatoes in salted water, don’t pour the water down the drain.
Instead, use that hot, salty potato water as a natural herbicide.
According to Team Clean, this trick works wonders on broadleaf weeds that tend to grow in paths and around patios.
The high temperature of the water combined with the salt content effectively withers and kills weeds within hours.
It’s an easy, cost-effective, and eco-friendly alternative to chemical weed killers.
To use this method, make sure you pour the salty potato water directly onto the weeds you want to eliminate, avoiding any plants you want to keep.
Salt can be damaging to most plants and soil, so it’s essential to use this hack carefully and only in areas where weeds are the target.
Applying the salted potato water as soon as it’s cooled just enough to handle is ideal, as the heat can help expedite the weed-killing process.
But potato water doesn’t just banish weeds—it can also be beneficial for your indoor and outdoor plants, as long as it’s unsalted.
Team Clean recommends saving any unsalted potato water after boiling and letting it cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, this starchy, mineral-rich water can be added to your regular watering routine.
Potato water is full of nutrients like potassium and magnesium, both of which contribute to plant health, promoting stronger roots and more vibrant foliage.