According to an expert, killing weeds with bleach in your yard can cause more problems than it solves.
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The internet is filled withhome remedies for killing weeds.
These DIY concoctions are touted as safer, more affordable, and more natural than commercially prepared herbicides.
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One of the most common DIY weed killers mentioned is bleach.
But given that bleach is a powerful chemical, is that really a good idea?
We asked an expert to weigh in on bleach as a weed killer.
Keep bleach out of the garden and in the laundry room.
Will Bleach Kill Weeds?
Bleach will kill weeds because its toxic to all living things.
Undesirable Side Effects on Soil
Heres the problem, though.
Bleach hangs out in the soil longer than you want it to, Mitchell says.
It will kill weeds, but it can cause other damage to your garden.
Bleach has ahigh pH level, and it can make your soil too alkaline to grow plants.
When bleach breaks down in your soil, it leaves behind salt, which is harmful to plants.
Theres collateral damage when you use bleach as a weed killer.
You killed the weeds, but you may have done lasting damage to your soil.
Is It Safe to Use Bleach on Patio Weeds?
Theres no soil to damage, goes the logic, and youll prevent weeds from growing back.
Read the Label
Mitchell stresses that you shouldnt use products in ways they are not labeled for.
Bleach is not labeled for use as a weed killer.
Herbicides are labeled for use asweed killers.
Defer to the expertise that went into crafting those labels, he says.
That label is a legal document and a well-informed set of instructions.
Pay attention to it.
