Gardeners battling with pesky weeds sprouting between patio slabs might have stumbled upon a permanent solution, thanks to a TikTok hack. The social media tip suggests that a simple concoction can stop weeds in their tracks “for good”. The method, initially shared by Dr. Janine Bowring, involves mixing one part salt with two parts water, stirring the mixture, and then pouring it over the unwanted greenery poking through cracks in driveways and pavements.

Harry Bodell, a gardening expert at PriceYourJob, has shared his thoughts on the effectiveness of this hack and how to carry it out without damaging neighbouring plants. He explained: “This method works by ultimately dehydrating weeds. Salt interferes with the weed’s ability to absorb essential nutrients such as potassium, magnesium and calcium.

“The disruption in nutrient uptake weakens the plant’s overall health, causing it to dry out from dehydration and die.

“The salt method prevents further growth of weeds. There are certain ions present in salt which can be toxic to plants.

“When accumulated in high concentrations, it interferes with natural processes such as photosynthesis, leading to cell damage and dehydration of the plant.”

So what does the gardening guru suggest for those looking to follow this natural weed killer? Harry advised: “Once you’ve prepared your salt solution, lightly pour the solution over gaps in between paving slabs on garden paths, specifically targeting areas where weeds are currently emerging.

“It’s important to do this on a particularly dry day so humidity and rain don't wash away the solution.

“Overnight, the solution will work on drying out the plant to the root, making the weed easy to remove the next day.”

Nonetheless, Harry advised caution when using the mixture, emphasising that while salt may “effectively kill weeds”, it can also build up in the soil and “affect the growth of other plants”.

He suggests applying the solution carefully and only where you’re sure you want no vegetation, as it might hinder the sprouting of other species.

Noting the cost-effectiveness of the method, he said that salt is not only affordable but also likely an item you already have at home. For those needing to purchase some, M&S offers salt at a mere 40p, with similar deals available at local stores.