Carolyn J. Braden • 3 Minute Read
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
Published: 3/4/2021
Updated: 11/25/25
Discover a powerful garden, lawn, and sidewalk DIY weed killer recipe that actually works—without relying on harsh chemicals. This easy, budget-friendly formula helps you tackle stubborn weeds fast while keeping your outdoor spaces safer for kids, pets, and the environment. Learn how to mix it, apply it, and boost its effectiveness with simple pro tips. Say goodbye to unwanted growth and hello to a cleaner, greener yard with this tried-and-true natural weed control solution.
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
The Inspiration
I have wanted to try this DIY weed killer for years and just never got around to it. Then I moved to Florida. Our front lawn is landscaped with a blanket of shells. It looks beautiful and I am grateful to the previous owner for having the house landscaped so well.
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
One thing I know for sure though, shells do not block weeds! As the spring season has started to show itself in south Florida, the weeds have started to do the same. Living on an island that dedicates tons of time, resources and education to preserving wildlife and land, I wanted a weed solution that wouldn’t go against those efforts.
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
I also don’t want to encourage red tide, which harsh lawn chemicals are proven contributors of this agal bloom. Red Tide releases toxins that cause illness in humans and other animals. Having a completely weed free lawn is not as important as the harmful effects of chemical lawn treatments. In late 2020 I had my first experience with red tide and it definitely irritated my lungs, so I know this is something to be concerned about.
DIY Related Fun!
See our DIY outdoor shower tutorial here, in our 1-minute video below or via our YouTube channel @carolynjbraden:
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
I saw many recipes on Pinterest for this DIY weed killer over the years, so this year I finally decided to try it.
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
Click the button below to print out the recipe!
Here’s the easy recipe (links go out to Amazon.com)
1 gallon vinegar (if you use industrial strength, it will give you more power but wear hand protection when mixing)
1/4 cup Dawn Dish Soap (Blue Original)
We placed all these ingredients (starting with the vinegar) into this 1 gallon pump sprayer we bought on Amazon.
I then shook it to mix it all together. My husband then went out early in the morning to spray it on some of our weeds. We then let it (and the sun) work it’s magic.
Our result?
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
It worked! Well, on most weeds. We checked the weeds again at about 6:00 in the evening (after a sunny day) and most had wilted and began to brown.
The only ones that seemed resistant to the solution was a tough grass-like weed, which we believe could be a small palm sprout. They are hard to even pull out of the ground, so it made sense that this one was resistant.
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
In the photo above, you can see the softer grass patches and random other weeds all were wilted that evening.
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
After two days (sunny days + one rain storm), they were mostly dead. By then, the solution had made it’s way to the root and we were able to easily pull them out.
Garden, Lawn and Sidewalk DIY Weed Killer Recipe That Actually Works
We will definitely continue to use this solution. I know that Dawn still contains chemicals, but I also know it is used to clean animals when oil spills happen, so I know it’s gentle enough. We have many little lizards running around our yard constantly, so I won’t use it daily, but we will keep it on hand to use occasionally.
As for that tough resistant weed, for now we’ll just be pulling it out by hand.
Other helpful tips:
I use vinegar as an alternative to fabric softener. You can’t smell it at all on fabrics after washing and it truly works. It’s especially good for workout clothes.
I use epsom salt in my bath all the time, especially when I have sore muscles. It works great!
I’ve also read epsom salt can be used with water to make your grass greener, but have not tried it.
While this recipe and tips and tricks may not work for everyone, like many things in life, it’s all at least worth a try.
More of our DIY’s and other inspirations can be found on our YouTube channel, “Carolyn Braden”.
Take Action
I encourage you to try this DIY with your own creative twists and share your creations on your social accounts! If you tag me using @carolynsbloomingcreations or @carolynjbraden, I’ll see it! Or tell me about it in the comments below.
If you loved this article, then we know you’ll love this one too: How to Get Yourself to Spend More Time in the Garden
Carolyn J. Braden is the owner of Carolyn’s Blooming Creations is a regular contributor and editor for CBC. She has been featured in numerous media publications such as InStyle Magazine, on HGTV, on Bustle.com, and more. She is the author of the books Georgia McMasters in Amethyst Lake Cemetery, How To Be Yourself: 3 Ways To Help You Being You, and the illustrator for the children’s book Bridging Connections. She is a former classroom teacher that now dedicates her life to educating others on how to live their most healthy, creative and happy life. Learn more about her visiting our About Us page.