Rotate nozzle to ‘spray’ or ‘stream’, hold sprayer approx 50cm from the target weed to lightly wet the leaves and avoid run-off. Glyphosate – kills the majority of plants, including perennial grasses, so it’s not one that you want to accidentally get on the lawn or flowerbed. It is effective at killing well-established weeds because it works from inside the weed itself. After being absorbed by the leaves and stalk of the weed, glyphosate spreads to the rest of the plant, including the roots. In recent years, it’s developed a reputation for being dangerous; however the jury is out on a definitive conclusion. Some studies have found it to be carcinogenic, whilst others consider it safe for humans to use as long as the instructions are followed. Glyphosate is also thought to negatively affect wildlife such as bees and aquatic life. It can stay in the soil for a long time as well.

You might want to consider the various types of weed killer before settling on one. If you’re targeting weeds on your lawn, the best option will be a selective weed killer that won’t harm the grass, only the weeds. The actual chemicals vary depending on the type and brand of weed killer, but they tend to work in a combination of the following ways: Overall, this is certainly one of the best weed killers for getting rid of tougher weeds and tree stumps, but it does need to be used with patience as the results aren’t instant. Also, it offers quite good value for the price, with the 1 L bottle containing enough formula to cover up to 332 m² when diluted. Therefore, you should avoid using weed killer if you know it’s going to rain or if it’s windy. Other Methods for Removing Weeds It comes as a concentrated liquid, so you need to dilute the weed killer before applying it to the garden. This is done by adding 30 ml of weed killer into 6 L of water (if using a watering can and a fine rose). This produces enough weed killer solution to treat an area of 10 m².This bottle contains 360 g of product, enough to cover a 1666 sqm area. It does require mixing before application, but it comes with a measuring cap included which is very easy to use. It can be applied using either a watering can or a sprayer.

It’s important to note that the chemicals in most weed killers are not as effective during warmer temperatures.This weed control is exceptionally strong, with a single 2 L bottle treating up to 3332 sqm. It would be ideal for those with a badly overgrown allotment or garden, but it’s also a good choice if you’re after a super strong weed killer for deep-rooted weeds. Plants have hormones too, and these chemical hormones are linked to natural growth. Some weed killers contain plant hormones, some natural and some synthetic such as 2,4-D (Trimec). When these products are applied to the plant, the hormone is absorbed and confuses the plant’s own growth system. This leads to growth deformities before eventual death. Additional Information The following information will help you work out how to find the best weed killer for your garden: Different Varieties of Weed Killer Selective weed killer is usually safe to use on lawns as it won’t kill off the grass. It will only target and kill specific types of plans (eg. weeds). Selective weed killer is normally clearly sold as being lawn safe. Therefore, if a weed killer doesn’t mention being safe for lawns, don’t use it on grass (unless you don’t mind the grass getting scorched). READ NEXT: How to Clear a Garden Full of Weeds Ingredients Commonly Found in Selective Weed Killers

This is not necessarily due to any shortcoming of the herbicide itself, but related to how plants absorb moisture. Most plants absorb more moisture in the cool temperatures of the early morning, but stop when temperatures rise in the afternoon. Forks, trowels and hoes are good to have in the armoury against stubborn weeds. But sometimes you need something more. An effective weed killer can help truly eliminate weeds, keeping your garden looking pristine. Plus, they’re not only useful in the battle against common weeds; certain weed killers can get rid of brambles, nettles and thistles as well. Whilst Neudorff might not be a particularly well-known company, their WeedFree Plus Concentrate is a powerful weed killer that works on relatively stubborn weeds. It’s also one of the best products in terms of value for money, coming in a liquid concentrate that can be diluted to cover up to 667 m². Introducing Different Hormones. The plant’s hormones dictate its growth. Some weed killers contain plant hormones that, when applied to the plant, confuse the plant’s growth system. This will kill weeds as the plant eventually becomes deformed and dies.Don’t leave bare soil. Weeds thrive in open spaces in the soil. Plant vegetables, flowers and shrubs close together to minimise open areas where weeds can pop up. One of the best things about this weed killer is that it’s fairly simple to apply. There’s a ‘flexi spray’ that clips out of the body, with the pipe clipping to the lid. There’s two spray functions, a jet spray and a fine spray. You will need to touch the nozzle, so gloves are required. Be careful using weed killers around food plants. Many of them are unsafe for use around crops. There are some which are considered to be ok, but you should always do your own research on specific products and read the label carefully.

On the plus side, the fact that this product isn’t left in the ground means that the treated areas can be sown or planted again relatively soon after using the product. Longevity: Any weed killers that needed to be reapplied after rain were significantly marked down, as this doubled the time you’d have to spend on weed killing. Weed killers that killed the entire plant, including the roots, were rated the best, as these are the only products that ensure long-lasting results.

Final Verdict

Whilst there are a lot of ingredients that can go into weed killers, some are used more commonly than others. The Weedol Ultra Tough WeedKiller Liquid Concentrate is arguably the easiest weed killer to apply of all the ones I tested. It doesn’t come pre-mixed, but it can be diluted in either a watering can or sprayer.