If there is one gardening chore that always feels like a losing battle, it’s dealing with those unruly weeds. Be it taking over my lawn and front yard or surfacing between my patio pavers, they seem to be everywhere.

While larger, visible weeds with clear taproots are easy enough to pull out, weeds stuck deep in narrow cracks and crevices are a whole different challenge.

But before you splurge on commercial weed killers or expensive tools, a surprising pantry staple can do just the trick — and it’s not white vinegar. In fact, this chemical-free, natural hack will not only make light work of your everyday weeding chores, but can banish pests too. Win-win!

It seems like baking soda can do so much more than enhance tasty bakes and cakes. Known for its miraculous cleaning powers in the home and odor-neutralizing abilities, baking soda can also tackle young weeds — making it a cost-effective weed killer.

Essentially, baking soda acts as a contact herbicide. Although it burns and destroys the specific green foliage and tissues it comes into contact with, it doesn't penetrate deep taproots. Which is why this method is more effective for dealing with shallow roots only.

Simply sprinkle baking soda directly from the box over the weeds and grass growing in between the crevices. If you’re dealing with scattered weeds or blades of grass shooting up, experts recommend sprinkling about one teaspoon of baking soda directly onto the foliage and stems of each plant.

And if you’re tackling larger weed patches, scatter about 1 cup (225 grams) of baking soda per 100 square feet of paving.

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