Rubbing alcohol as weed killer?

[Nicos]

Aka surgical spirit...

I came across this on another site.....


Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, makes an excellent weed killer. Mix about three tablespoons into one quart of water in a spray bottle and douse weeds with it. The alcohol will dry out the leaves, depriving the roots of light and killing the plant. For weeds with thick, waxy leaves, like thistle, you may need to use several applications.


- See more at: Dude, Sustainable!: Get Rid of Chemicals in Your Yard - 5 Natural Ways to Kill Weeds


Any one tried it...and any thoughts on pros and cons?

[mothhawk]

That's interesting, but if you're just killing the top growth, a hoe is just as easy...

[Nicos]

I suppose in a situation like weeds in cracks paths etc it might be worth a try?

In that situation if a slow pull wouldn't bring it out intact, I'd go for boiling water, just thought this might be an alternative?

[mothhawk]

I'd go for boiling water too, because it's to hand. I have no surgical spirit in the house

[mothhawk]

I might be tempted with pernicious weeds in pathway cracks to add a drop of vinegar to the boiling water. I do have that in the cupboard

[Bigmallly]

I tend to use table salt in cracks but now I'm tangentising...........sorry.............