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Despite attentive gardening practices, unwanted weeds can muscle in quickly, making organic weed killers a necessary tool for removing pesky plants without posing risks to food production or the environment. While these useful lawn-care products can help provide flowers and vegetables with the space they need to produce blossoms and edibles, it can be difficult to know which organic herbicides for weeds actually work. To help you in your search, we researched dozens of popular options and reached out to a lawn care and gardening expert for their experience-based insights.
As a result of our efforts, we found eight organic weed killers we feel confident recommending. Of those, our favorite is the Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer, a formula that’s easy to apply, works quickly, and is certified for organic use. Rather than spraying your garden with conventional herbicides full of toxic chemicals that do more harm than good, this and the rest of the best organic weed killers we selected use natural ingredients that work while keeping food, kids, and pets safe.
- BEST OVERALL: Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Natural Armor 30% Home & Garden Vinegar
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SPRAY: Natria Grass & Weed Control With Root Kill
↓ Jump to Review - BEST CONCENTRATE: Bonide Captain Jack’s Deadweed Brew Concentrate
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SPOT TREATMENT: Sunday Weed Warrior
↓ Jump to Review - BEST MULTIPURPOSE: Earthborn Elements Pure Borax Powder
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR GRAVEL: Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer
↓ Jump to Review - ALSO CONSIDER: Eco Living Solutions Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
↓ Jump to Review
Before You Buy an Organic Weed Killer
The best organic weed killers are a one-step way to remove unwanted weeds like dandelions, poison ivy, and more. But they may not give you the results you’re after since they’re typically nonselective, meaning they can kill all the plants in vegetable gardens, flower beds, and grassy areas in addition to weeds. More traditional methods, such as pulling weeds by hand or using a weeding tool, may provide better weed control for lawns and spaces where you want more control over which plants you eradicate.
Organic Weed Killer Comparison Chart
| Product Name | Type | Size | Formula |
| Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer | Spray | 1 gallon; other sizes available | Nonselective; acetic acid |
| Natural Armor 30% Home & Garden Vinegar | Spray | 1 gallon; other sizes available | Nonselective; acetic acid |
| Natria Grass & Weed Control With Root Kill | Spray | 24 ounces; other sizes available | Nonselective; ammoniated soap |
| Bonide Captain Jack’s Deadweed Brew Concentrate | Liquid concentrate | 32 ounces; other sizes available | Nonselective; caprylic acid and capric acid |
| Sunday Weed Warrior | Spray | Two 32-ounce bottles; other sizes available | Nonselective; ammoniated soap |
| Earthborn Elements Pure Borax Powder | Powder | 1 gallon; other sizes available | Nonselective; sodium borate |
| Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer | Comfort wand spray | 1 gallon; other sizes available | Nonselective; ammonium nonanoate |
| Eco Living Solutions Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer | Liquid | 1 gallon; other sizes available | Nonselective; sodium chloride and acetic acid |
Our Top Picks
The following organic weed killers made our list because they’re potent enough to kill weeds naturally without the use of harmful chemicals that can contaminate fruits and vegetables or leave environmentally damaging residues behind. Choosing the best organic weed killer from these options depends on individual needs and weed types needing removal.
Best Overall
Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
What We Like
- Organic Material Review Institute (OMRI)-listed for organic use
- Spray application makes it easier to be precise
- Starts working within 24 hours of application
What We Don’t Like
- May not totally eliminate particularly stubborn weeds
Specs
- Type: Spray
- Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available
- Formula: Nonselective; acetic acid
Crabgrass, dandelions, thistles, and other weeds are history with just a spritz of OMRI-listed Green Gobbler vinegar weed and grass killer. Derived from corn, this natural acetic acid herbicide is nonselective, meaning it kills all vegetation it’s applied to with a turnaround time of 24 hours. The easy-to-use spray attachment that comes with the gallon bottle makes application a cinch, and larger quantities are available without the extra nozzle for use as refills.
Green Gobbler is especially beneficial along fence lines, around patios and pool areas, and in mulched flower beds where common weeds and grasses tend to sprout most. Just use care not to spray it on desirable plantings because they, too, will die.
Get the Green Gobbler organic weed killer at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Green Gobbler.
Best Bang for the Buck
Natural Armor 30% Home & Garden Vinegar
What We Like
- 6 times more potent than comparable formulas
- Comes with an attachable trigger sprayer
- Ideal for large areas needing extensive weed control
What We Don’t Like
- Sprayer clogs sometimes
Specs
- Type: Spray
- Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available
- Formula: Nonselective; acetic acid
To control weeds without spending a lot of cash, consider this Natural Armor concentrate. It’s available in an economical 1-gallon jug (as well as other sizes), comes at an attractive price, and contains vinegar that’s six times more potent than the household variety. This pet-safe weed killer can be applied using the attachable trigger sprayer, poured into a smaller spray bottle, or used with a pump-type garden sprayer.
Natural Armor’s industrial-strength organic weed killer contains only pure and natural ingredients that are environmentally safe. It’s a nonselective vegetation killer that’s well suited for lawn edging and removing weeds from fence lines, between sidewalk cracks, and among patio pavers. This vinegar weed killer spray can also be used to clean mossy stone garden statues and outdoor ornaments.
Get the Natural Armor organic weed killer at Amazon or Natural Armor.
Best Spray
Natria Grass & Weed Control With Root Kill Herbicide
What We Like
- Ready-to-use formula
- Ideal for cracks in pavement, edging, and more
- Precise spray applicator enables use as a weed killer for lawns
What We Don’t Like
- Requires a relatively thick coating to work
Specs
- Type: Spray
- Size: 24 ounces; other sizes available
- Formula: Nonselective; ammoniated soap
No need to mix or pour this Natria weed remover spray into another container—it comes in its own spray bottle and comes ready to apply. Unlike our two top picks, this option uses ammoniated soap of fatty acids, a natural ingredient that penetrates weed foliage to destroy the plant. Like our other recommendations, however, it’s also nonselective, so it shouldn’t be applied on a windy day if desirable plants are nearby.
For best results, Natria recommends you apply enough of this organic product to fully saturate the weed’s foliage. The herbicide will then travel through the foliage and stems to the roots, destroying the weed completely and preventing regrowth. Though it’s a strong weed killer, Natria won’t contaminate soil, meaning gardeners can safely sow seeds 5 days after use.
Get the Natria organic weed killer (various sizes) at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Ace Hardware.
Best Concentrate
Bonide Captain Jack’s Deadweed Brew Concentrate
What We Like
- Withers broadleaf or grassy weeds within hours
- 32-ounce concentrate makes more than 8 gallons of product
- Waterproof once dried
What We Don’t Like
- Requires dilution and a container for application
Specs
- Type: Liquid concentrate
- Size: 32 ounces; other sizes available
- Formula: Nonselective; caprylic acid and capric acid
When it comes to making weed killers, Bonide has an excellent reputation, and this concentrate is no exception. It’s available in a couple of sizes, and the 32-ounce container of this organic weed killer is enough for over 8 gallons of diluted product. It’s easy to apply using a standard handheld or backpack sprayer, and once it dries, it’s waterproof for extended effectiveness.
The chemical-conscious consumer can have peace of mind from this product as it is made with coconut and palm kernel oils, both capable of killing grassy and broadleaf weeds, moss, and algae. It is also suitable for applying to patios, walkways, driveways, fences, foundations, and more in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, given that it is a nonselective option, it may not be safe for use directly on gardens or beloved plants. But, it can be used at a safe distance around these areas to kill harmful weeds and grasses.
What our tester says: “We tried Deadweed Brew as part of our best weed killer tests by broadcasting it over a row of weeds growing between tire tracks on a gravel driveway. Within 4 hours, the weed zone had turned a pale greenish brown, and by the next morning, all the weeds were completely dead.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Bonide organic weed killer at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Bonide.
Best Spot Treatment
Sunday Weed Warrior
What We Like
- Easy to apply herbicidal soap kills grassy weeds
- Results start to appear in just 20 minutes
- OMRI-listed for safe organic use
What We Don’t Like
- May require periodic reapplication
Specs
- Type: Spray
- Size: Two 32-ounce bottles; other sizes available
- Formula: Nonselective; ammoniated soap
Sunday’s Weed Warrior is an herbicidal soap made from fatty acids designed to tackle grassy weeds, mosses, and algae. It works by breaking down the waxy coating that protects plants, leading to rapid dehydration and death. After application, you should start seeing visible results in about 20 minutes.
As a nonselective killer, this isn’t a good weed killer for lawns since it will kill your grass, too. However, it’s quite effective as a spot treatment along sidewalks, next to flower beds, and near concrete patios via precise application using the spray bottle. Those needing to treat larger areas will be pleased to know there are refill sizes available, including a gallon jug that has a convenient sprayer wand.
What our tester says: “The fact that I was so impressed with the Weed Warrior spot treatment that I bought the concentrated pouches to weed large areas is a testament to the product’s effectiveness.”—Daryna Tobey, Product Reviews tester and writer
Read our full review: Sunday Lawn Care Review
Get the Sunday organic weed killer (various sizes) at Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Sunday.
Best Multipurpose
Earthborn Elements Pure Borax Powder
What We Like
- Can be mixed to varying strengths for different needs
- Durable, resealable container is easy to store safely
- Great for flower beds, driveways, and stepping stones
What We Don’t Like
- Finding the right strength may require some tinkering
Specs
- Type: Powder
- Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available
- Formula: Nonselective; sodium borate
Multipurpose borax can kill weeds, control unwanted insects, and boost laundry detergent—and it’s the active ingredient in Earthborn Elements borax powder. Borax, short for “sodium borate,” is a natural mineral mined in desert regions, including California’s Death Valley.
To use, mix with water at a ratio of 10 ounces of borax to ½ cup of hot water, stirring until the powder dissolves. Next, further dilute the solution by pouring it into 2½ gallons of water, then spray it directly on weeds with a spray bottle or pump-type garden sprayer. Like many other natural weed killers, borax is nonselective, so you’ll want to take care to spray weeds only on a calm day to protect desirable plants.
Get the Earthborn Elements organic weed killer at Amazon or Earthborn Elements.
Best for Gravel
Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer
What We Like
- Listed by OMRI for safe organic use
- Results appear in about 15 minutes
- Battery-powered sprayer covers gravel pads quickly
What We Don’t Like
- Sprayer tube sometimes becomes disconnected
Specs
- Type: Comfort wand spray
- Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available
- Formula: Nonselective; ammonium nonanoate
Though we’ve yet to test it as a weed killer for gravel, we can hardly wait to unleash Ortho GroundClear’s battery-powered sprayer on our weed-prone gravel parking pad. Since this gravel area sits somewhat close to a drainage ditch, we’re careful about how we care for it, so the fact that this weed and grass killer is OMRI-certified is ideal. We also appreciate that the sprayer wand has adjustable settings to enable more precise application in mulched garden beds and alongside landscaped spaces.
Once applied, GroundClear gets to work, destroying plants’ cell membranes to cause dehydration and death in about 15 minutes. Though larger and more stubborn weeds may take a bit longer to die, this rainproof spray provides lasting effects that help prevent unwanted plants from coming back.
Get the Ortho organic weed killer (various sizes) at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Ortho.
Also Consider
Eco Living Solutions Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
What We Like
- Listed by OMRI for safe organic use
- Results appear in about 15 minutes
- Battery-powered sprayer covers gravel pads quickly
What We Don’t Like
- Sprayer tube sometimes becomes disconnected
Specs
- Type: Comfort wand spray
- Size: 1 gallon; other sizes available
- Formula: Nonselective; ammonium nonanoate
The Eco Living Solutions vinegar weed and grass killer contains high-strength vinegar for effective natural foliage eradication. It comes ready to use and should be sprayed full strength on weeds until foliage is saturated. It’s nonselective, so take care not to let overspray get on desirable plantings.
For those looking to get rid of grass, this product also works as an organic weed killer for lawns., making it an eco-friendly way to transition to xeriscape landscaping. Safe for honey bees, soil, and groundwater, it contains no harmful or toxic ingredients and can be applied to weeds in vegetable gardens or around fruiting vines. One gallon of this ready-to-use weed killer treats 1,000 square feet, and it also comes in a larger size to cover a greater area. Results start to show in as little as 24 hours, and no retreating is necessary.
Get the Eco Garden Pro organic weed killer at Amazon or Eco Living Solutions.
Or, DIY Your Own Organic Weed Killer
If you prefer the DIY approach to killing weeds, you can make a weed killer using basic essentials you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s Bob Vila’s favorite nonherbicide weed killer recipe.
In a large bowl, combine:
- 1 gallon of white household vinegar
- 1 cup of salt
- 1 tablespoon of dish soap
After combining the ingredients, pour the DIY weed killer into a spray bottle or sprayer and apply. This homemade weed killer recipe will create a full gallon of foolproof organic weed killer that can be applied to large or small patches of weeds.
If possible, try to apply this weirdly effective weeding solution when it is sunny to help dry out and shrivel the weeds. The combination of the weed killer and the sun will attack the weeds’ root systems and speed up the process.
For other ways to kill weeds without buying a weed killer, check out this list of homemade weed killer pros and cons. It details everything we like and don’t about popular DIY weed removal tactics.
Our Verdict
Our top pick, the Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer, is less toxic than traditional formulas, while the Earthborn Elements Pure Borax Powder is a great multipurpose choice. Popular lawn and garden options from Roundup and Ortho weren’t listed because they didn’t meet our sustainability guidelines—each contains ingredients like glyphosate 2,4D that have harmful environmental effects.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Chose the Best Organic Weed Killers
Our list of recommendations is the result of an in-depth exploration of organic weed killers, which are more environmentally friendly products for killing weeds than conventional herbicides. It includes picks for specific categories so shoppers have more targeted options for their needs as well as products that come in different sizes with varying application methods for both expansive coverage and occasional spot treatment.
Several of our recommendations are vinegar solutions of varying concentrations because vinegar kills weeds effectively without causing environmental harm. Depending on the specific weed problem, products with either 20 percent or 30 percent acetic acid will be appropriate.
What to Consider When Choosing an Organic Weed Killer
Before buying a weed killer, shoppers will want to investigate ingredients and read labels to determine whether the product will kill only specific weeds or affect all vegetation. It’s also a good idea to be mindful of the difference between organic herbicides that kill existing weeds and those that stop weed seeds from sprouting.
Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent
Like chemical weed killers, organic herbicides are available in two types: pre-emergent and post-emergent. Herbicides that are pre-emergent destroy seeds or prevent them from sprouting, while the post-emergent kind kills or inhibits weeds that have already sprouted and are growing.
The difference between the two is crucial because once a pre-emergent product is sprayed on the soil, it will prevent all seeds from sprouting there—whether those of common weeds, plants you never knew were weeds, or desirable plants and flowers. While this type of spray will inhibit weed growth alongside fence lines, driveways, and patios, if any of it lands near a plot of soil intended for flowers or a vegetable garden, it’s unlikely that any seeds planted there will sprout.
Selective vs. Nonselective
A selective weed killer will destroy only specific types of weeds but not others. For example, organic herbicides developed for lawns likely target broadleaf weeds, such as chickweed and clover, but they won’t damage turf-type grasses like Bermuda grass.
Nonselective weed killers will kill all vegetation—both weeds and desirable plants—so gardeners should use them with caution. If you’re trying to get rid of dandelions that have spread throughout your lawn, remember that spraying or broadcasting a nonselective weed killer will kill the grass along with the weeds.
When it comes to natural herbicides, users have very few selective products to choose from; the majority are nonselective and designed to kill most forms of vegetation. They can be used between sidewalk cracks or patio pavers or to create fence lines but shouldn’t be used near desirable plants and flowers, especially on windy days.
Ingredients
True to form, organic weed killers will not have toxic ingredients. Shoppers looking for lawn-care items to start or maintain a garden may be surprised to find several household ingredients, such as vinegar, salt, and corn, present in some organic weed killers. Other beneficial ingredients include soaps and essential oils, such as cinnamon or clove.
Lesser-known ingredients, like citric acid, caprylic acid (a coconut oil derivative), and D-limonene (derived from citrus fruits), also feature prominently in many organic weed killers. For added benefits, manufacturers may combine two or more of the above ingredients to control specific types of weeds.
Form
Natural weed-killing products are available in various forms, with some better suited to specific types of applications.
- Spray: Easy to use and offering uniform coverage, most sprays are designed for direct application to the weed’s foliage. Spraying should be avoided on windy days to avoid harming desirable plants.
- Liquid concentrate: For those with large crops or heavy weed infestation, a liquid concentrate may be best. It can be diluted with water and easily applied over large areas with a pump-type garden sprayer.
- Powder: Meant for broadcasting over specific areas, powder herbicides can also get carried by the wind and inadvertently kill nearby plants.
- Salts: Products containing salt will kill plants, so be careful when using them. Salt makes soil infertile, and it can take years to leach it out. Salt-based nontoxic weed killers are often best for patio pavers or sidewalk joints rather than flower beds.
FAQs
If you’re switching from a traditional weed killer to an organic type, you may still have questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about organic weed killers.
If they contain salt, then yes, they can. Organic herbicides that contain vinegar or other nonchemical ingredients that only stay in the soil for a few days and are less likely to cause damage
Most organic weed killers are considered environmentally safe, but just because a product is natural or organic doesn’t mean it won’t cause headaches or other symptoms. Always read warning labels.
That depends on the product. Most sprays can be used whenever new weeds appear, and some may require two or more applications to get rid of certain types.
For best results, apply weed killer early in the day or late in the afternoon to prevent rapid evaporation. Avoid spraying on windy days to keep the solution from drifting onto unintended areas, and try not to spray if rain is expected so the formula doesn’t get washed away before it has a chance to work.
It’s better to spray weed killer on dry plants so the herbicide sticks instead of mixing with the moisture and running off.
Many organic weed killers work by absorbing the solution through the leaves, so cutting them before application actually reduces the surface area available, which can reduce their efficacy. Chrissie Handley, a lawn care and gardening specialist at Online Turf—a turf, compost, and soil company—agrees. “It’s not really necessary—the weed killers generally target the plants by the root, so cutting the stems won’t increase the chances of absorbing the weed killer.”
