Q&A

DEAR NEW FARM:
Do you have a formula for an organic herbicide that can be made at home or on the farm?

Bob Cashdollar

DEAR BOB:
We have heard of soap sprays, scalding hot water, and vinegar-and-salt solutions being used effectively.

NF

DEAR NEW FARM:
Thanks for your suggestions for organic herbicides. I am currently looking for some vinegar with a higher than normal acid content—any suggestions?

Bob

DEAR BOB:
Studies do suggest that vinegar at a 10- to 20-percent strength indeed works more effectively than store-bought vinegar (which is typically 5 to 6 percent strength). See also the following study from Cornell University: Using Acetic Acid (Vinegar) as a Broad Spectrum Herbicide; www.cce.cornell.edu/rensselaer/Horticulture/acetic_acid_as_herbicide.htm.

Additionally, this website lists sources for high-acid vinegar:
www.moscowfood.coop/archive/VinegarKillsWeeds.html.

Good luck,
NF

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