How can I stop weeds in gravel permanently?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Gravel areas need long-term weed management plans that won't affect the surface. Organic methods are effective when used correctly and consistently. I have had several years of success maintaining gravel driveways with these practices that do not involve chemicals. If you prepare well, you will avoid weed maintenance issues and therefore have to spend less time managing weeds in the future.
Thermal Treatment
- Pour boiling water directly on weeds for instant kill
- Works best on young annual weeds in cracks
- Repeat every 2 weeks during growing season
- Use kettle with narrow spout for precision
Vinegar-Salt Solutions
- Mix 1 gallon vinegar with 1 cup salt and soap
- Apply only to weeds avoiding surrounding gravel
- Rinse spills immediately to prevent surface residue
- Avoid near planting areas due to soil damage
Barrier Installation
- Install quality landscape fabric under new gravel
- Overlap seams by 6 inches to prevent gaps
- Use commercial-grade fabric that lasts 5+ years
- Anchor edges securely against wind displacement
Gravel Maintenance
- Replenish top layer annually to maintain depth
- Use angular crushed stone that interlocks tightly
- Rake regularly to prevent soil accumulation
- Inspect monthly for fabric tears or thin spots
Preventive Measures
- Edge gravel areas with metal or plastic borders
- Keep adjacent vegetation trimmed back regularly
- Remove weeds before they set seed
- Apply corn gluten meal in early spring
Landscape fabric forms a permanent physical barrier to weeds when properly installed. I installed commercial-grade fabric and then covered it with gravel on top of my driveway. This eliminates light and root development. Be sure to cover the soil with ample overlap at seams completely. Proper installation saves time and reduces maintenance issues in the long run.
Yearly replenishment of gravel keeps proper depths that block sunlight from germinating weed seeds. I supplement with a 1" layer of new crushed stone each spring. This covers the depressions that develop where soil settles, even limiting germination in these areas. The key is using an angular stone that locks in tightly. Regular raking helps prevent settling and inhibits weed growth.
Salt and vinegar mixtures are effective, but caution should be used. Apply weed treatments with care to prevent excessive salt from accumulating in the gravel. I like to apply the solution with a spray because it allows precision. After treatment, rinse the area to eliminate any excessive, white salt residue that may remain. Never treat the weed areas before rain events to avoid runoff into adjacent soil and the environment.
Read the full article: 10 Natural Weed Control Methods That Work
