
Several selective herbicides may be combined to increase the number and type of weeds killed. The type of weeds killed by selective herbicides depends on the product.
Selective weed killer: Many herbicides are selective, meaning they kill certain specific types of weeds but not others. When it comes to weed killers, the ingredients in the product will be either selective or non-selective. In some cases, it might also be a good idea to use a product that keeps future weed seeds from sprouting. No matter what type of weed woes you’re dealing with, the herbicide chosen should be strong enough to kill the unwanted vegetation. The weed problems common to gravel vary widely, ranging from a single dandelion that springs up in the center of a path to invasive creeping grasses that systematically eat away at the sides of a gravel driveway. In a lawn, dead weeds may soon be hidden by healthy grass, but in graveled areas the unsightly species will have to be removed-typically by plucking them out by hand-so prompt treatment pays off. But when it comes to gravel, it’s especially important to wage war on unwanted plants early, because even a few dead weeds will stand out starkly to mar the clean look. The same weed-killing products used to treat other areas, such as sidewalk cracks, under fence lines, and in lawns, can all be used on gravel and sand. Photo: What to Consider When Choosing the Best Weed Killer for Gravel MOST ECO-FRIENDLY: Natria Grass and Week Control with Root Killer. BEST BORAX-BASE: Earthborn Elements Borax Powder. BEST NATURAL: Natural Armor Weed and Grass Killer All-Natural. BEST FOR PREVENTION: Preen 2464161 Extended Control Weed Preventer. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Ortho GroundClear Year Long Vegetation Killer. BEST OVERALL: RM43 Total Vegetation Control Weed Preventer.
Ahead, learn what to look for when shopping for the best weed killers for gravel, and find out why the following products all earned a spot in this lineup. Treating the weeds, which often entails treating the entire gravel or sand area, is usually the best way to eradicate the problem. Pulling an errant dandelion here and there isn’t a big deal, but when multiple weeds appear, they can quickly multiply, making a path or a driveway look shabby and unkempt.
Treating these areas with a quality weed killer may be the best solution. In addition, gravel driveways are sometimes installed without the benefit of a barrier, which makes them highly prone to weed development. It’s not foolproof, however, because dust and dirt can blow and settle in the gravel, providing an environment for weed seeds to grow. The standard practice when installing gravel paths is to put a weed barrier between the rock fragments and the soil to help reduce the risk of weed seeds sprouting and taking hold.