Weed Killing Chemicals: Trading Beauty for Danger?

In today’s society, the social protocol is to keep our lawn and other landscaped areas looking aesthetically pleasing. There are two popular methods of achieving this look, the hard labor of pulling weeds by hand or chemical warfare by spraying the weeds and other undesirable plants with deadly herbicides.

Of the two methods, pulling weeds by hand provides the most benefits. By pulling weeds by hand, you are able to prevent the same weed from growing again as you have not only destroyed the root but have also removed it. Next, this method allows for direct targeting of certain weeds and plants without the danger of an overspray. The most overlooked benefits to this method are the health benefits. The health benefits of pulling weeds begin with fresh air. Office workers are subjected to recycled air that may contain germs and other bacteria that are not able to dissipate in the atmosphere. Many factory workers breath in toxins produced from the products they are manufacturing.

Exercise is another benefit that is provided by getting down on your hands and knees to rid the flower garden of those pesky weeds. Many people with sedentary jobs pay for gym memberships to stay in shape. Walking and popping out weeds by hand or working in the garden could provide some of that exercise at no charge.

However, the most popular method of weed control is by chemical spray. Study after study shows the dangers of spraying chemicals on our lawns and gardens. The government requires that a list of ingredients be displayed on the containers of the chemicals. Whereas many of these harmful ingredients are listed as “inert ingredients”, many users of these chemicals do not realize that “inert” does not mean “inactive”. In fact, some “inert” ingredients such as benzene and xylene are even more toxic that the chemicals that are listed on the container.

Why do people accept the dangers using chemical to control weeds? Time! Time is the most precious commodity we have. It is limited and can only be managed.

The question that presents itself is “How can we keep our lawn and gardens free from weeds without endangering our families and pets?”

Alternatives to Weed Killer

One method is organic weed killers. A popular natural ingredient for killing weeds is household vinegar. The acid in the vinegar will kill young weeds and then breakdown in the soil making it safe to plant grass, or other plants within a couple of days.

A completely chemical free method can be achieved by using a weed torch. The heat from the flame melts away the waxy cuticle that protects the plant and will kill it to the root. This method may take a few times to completely destroy the weed.

Whether the primary goal is enhancing our lawns and gardens or protecting our families and pets, there are alternative weed control solutions that will do the job and save time and effort.

However, if you choose to use weed killer, make sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions and always test it on a small section of your lawn or garden.