White Vinegar
Vinegar contains acetic acid, which damages the outer surfaces of plant leaves. When sprayed directly onto weeds, it removes moisture from the plant tissue and causes visible wilting.
Kitchen Salt
Salt is one of the strongest ingredients in the mixture. It interferes with a plant’s ability to manage water, leading to severe dehydration. This can make it difficult for weeds to recover after treatment.
Citric Acid
Citric acid, commonly associated with citrus fruits, increases the mixture’s effectiveness by further damaging plant tissue when it comes into contact with leaves.
Liquid Dish Soap
Many plant leaves have a waxy coating that causes liquids to slide off. Dish soap helps the spray stick to the surface of the leaves, allowing the other ingredients to remain in contact with the plant longer.
Although these ingredients seem simple, the way they work together may surprise you.
