5 Killer ways to Get Rid of Weeds in Your Driveway. And Keep Them OUT!

If you have a gravel driveway, you are likely no stranger to weeds being an issue. 

And you know what a nightmare they can be to deal with!

But fret not, below you will find some great ways to remove weeds from your driveway and keep them gone. 

You won't want to miss my favorite method for removing them which involves fire! 🔥 (Hint it's Method #3)

If you want to easily remove weeds from your stone driveway and keep them gone, keep reading. 

5 Methods to Remove Weeds from Your Driveway

Below are 5 solid methods you can use to remove weeds from your driveway and keep them gone. Using these methods you can remove weeds and keep them away.

Method #1: Simply Spreading Salt

It’s true, killing weeds in your driveway is as simple as spreading regular table salt. Of course, you can also use Epsom salt. Or water softener salt such as demonstrated below.

Think about it this way, the weeds in your driveway are surrounded by stone which attracts a lot of heat, at least when exposed to direct sunlight. 

So, by working to dehydrate the weeds in your driveway by spreading salt, or using the recipe in Method #4. You can kill the weeds in your driveway fairly easily in an eco-friendly fashion. 

The downside to this method: Some weeds will be resistant to the salt method. And you may still have to remove them by hand, or use the “fire method”. 

Looking for more yard cleanup tips?

Method #2: Removal By Hand

Yeah, trust me. I know.

I have spent hours and hours on my knees hand picking weeds out of driveways in the early days of my business. 

The process is pretty straightforward, pick out the weeds by hand, or using a weeding tool. 

But I really prefer using the next method to remove the stubborn weeds. 

Pro Tip! Rather than solely relying on removing weeds by hand, incorporate Method #1 above or Method #4 below. 

Method #3: Using a Weed Torch (AKA the 🔥Fire🔥 Method)

Oh yeah! It’s time to bring in the heat. 

Look, this method is simple, get a weed torch and light it up.

A weed torch is essentially an extended torch that allows you to reach the ground while standing up. 

This is not only the most fun method, but it’s also very effective. Not only killing ALL types of weeds in the driveway, but also their seeds. 

While it may be a little time-consuming, this method is actually fun. And it will kill the weeds in your driveway, and keep them away. 

Method #4: Herbicide (Natural Recipe Below)

Of course, you could always use herbicides, but you need to be sure you are wearing the proper protective equipment. 

Be sure to follow the instructions on the pesticide for proper use.

Remember: It took 50 years for the truth about Roundup to come out. Other pesticides may also have yet undiscovered side effects. Always wear proper PPE and avoid use when possible. 

Natural Herbicide Recipe:

• 1 Gallon distilled white vinegar (5%)

• 1 cup Epsom salt

• 1/2 cup Dish soap

Simply mix all the ingredients together in a pump sprayer and apply it to the weeds in your driveway. Horticultural strength vinegar can also be used.

This natural herbicide works best when used at the hottest time of the day. And you may have to apply it several times to certain weeds. 

And remove the most stubborn weeds by hand, or with the fire method. 

Method #5: Bring in the Asphalt 

At the end of the day, the ultimate solution may be to pave your driveway. 

Paving your driveway will seal out any weeds from breaking through your driveway. While it may be the most expensive of the options, it is a long-term solution that will get rid of weeds and keep them away. So if you really want a solution that guarantees you won't be dealing with weeds this is the one.

Should I use landscape fabric under my driveway?

One method many people consider in their stone scapes for keeping out weeds is landscape fabric. While driveway fabric may prevent some weeds from breaking through the driveway, it can not stop the seeds which land on top from growing. 

While you should not use landscape fabric under your driveway, driveway fabric can be a great way to keep some weeds from establishing themselves in your driveway. It can also prolong your driveways life. 

However, driveway fabric WILL NOT stop weeds from growing above the fabric. Which is one of the reasons it should not be used in mulch beds. 

TLDR: Get rid of driveway weeds & keep them gone!

5 methods:

1. Spread salt: Dehydrates & kills weeds (eco-friendly, but not all weeds).
2. Pull weeds by hand: Simple but time-consuming. Consider combining with salt or natural herbicide.
3. Use a weed torch: Fun & effective, kills all weeds & seeds (be careful!).
4. Natural herbicide: Mix vinegar, salt & soap, apply hot for best results (may need multiple applications).
5. Pave your driveway: Ultimate solution, seals out weeds (expensive).

Bonus: Driveway fabric helps prevent some weeds, but not seeds.

Pro-tip: Combine methods for best results. Weed torch works great on its own!

Killing Weeds in the Driveway At The End of the Day

At the end of the day, as with many solutions in life. It's best to take a multistep approach when it comes to dealing with weeds in your driveway. 

The thing is, there are so many types of weeds that one will be resistant to some of the methods.  

Of course, the torch does a pretty good job on its own. And they are fairly affordable. 

Don’t want to deal with it on your own? Hire a landscaper through GreenPal to get the job done!