You have probably heard the chatter about how Roundup is a toxic herbicide. Perhaps, you just want to shift to an environmentally safer way of killing weeds. Irrespective of your motivation, using alternatives to Roundup is essential for your health in the long run.
Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to Roundup causes many health issues. As stated by The Guardian, 1 out of 3 Americans had contact with toxic weed killers without knowing. That is why several manufacturers have come up with innovative and organic solutions.
Examples include pouring boiling water on weed or using solarization. To learn more about organic methods and get tips, read this blog until the end.
Why Do You Need an Alternative to Roundup Weed Killer?
The main reason to look for a different weed killer would be the presence of an active ingredient called Glyphosate. The World Health Organization has flagged it as a “probable human carcinogen.” Studies have shown Roundup exposure can lead to cancer and neurological issues.
There is an ongoing Roundup lawsuit against companies like Bayer AG and Monsanto because they did not warn consumers about the dangers of using Roundup. Anyone exposed to this herbicide for a prolonged time can file a Roundup lawsuit if they have proper medical proof.
Due to Glyphosate exposure, many agricultural workers and their families developed lymphatic cancer like Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and leukemia. According to TorHoerman Law, 80% of the cases have been settled within USD 10 billion. They also suggest Roundup victims retain evidence of purchase receipts, employment records, personal testimony, and medical certificates.
Several attorneys have dedicated their time and efforts to delivering justice to affected individuals. Moreover, many law firms have specified legal teams for chemical exposure lawsuits.
In short, you should not use Roundup as it contains a dangerous chemical, and constant exposure can lead to health issues.
The Alternative Methods to Roundup: Ways to Kill Weed Naturally
Did you know glyphosate-based herbicides have been used for over 50 years in America? Over 130 pounds were being sprayed every square mile.
Ron Niebruegge, an Illinois farmer, had an active life. He was healthy and loved to dance. However, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and is now living a tough life. After careful analysis, scientists have found a link between these neurological diseases and weed killers.
To avoid falling sick, you must give up on toxic herbicides like Roundup. Use these techniques instead:
- Pour boiling water on the weed’s stems and leaves, as it will destroy the root system.
- Use organic weed killers that combine clove oil, vinegar, and lemon juice to kill the broadleaf roots from growing again.
- Scorch the weed growth using a propane torch during a wind-free day to kill unwanted grass.
- Mix 10 ounces of Borax in 2.5 gallons of water to create an effective concoction that you can spray on the weed to kill it.
- Use corn gluten as a dry powder over your weeds to slow their development over time.
- Suffocate the weed growth by 2 to 4 inches with mulch from biodegradable products like newspaper, wood, or cardboard.
- Use the solarizing method during summer and cover the weed-growing area with a clear plastic that attracts heat.
You can also use industrial vinegar and iron-based herbicides. Ideally, you should only resort to chemical products when organic approaches fail.
Tips to Use Natural Herbicides
A study conducted by the Consumer Notice Organization suggests that organic weed killers are more effective than chemical ones. However, you have to use them in high volume.
Before using natural herbicides, you should determine the type of weed your land has among the 35 types found in America. Once done, you can follow these tips for the best results:
- Use the natural herbicide on hot days with low humidity, and avoid applying the techniques when the weed has morning dew.
- Be careful where you spray or apply the products containing acid or oils, as the herbicide may kill other plants.
- Use protective gear when handling invasive weed-killing methods, or it will damage your skin.
- Perennial and larger weeds will need multiple applications of natural weed killers to control their growth.
A Special Recipe for You
At North Dakota State University, researchers have found a famous homemade formula to be effective. It contains a mixture of salt, soap, and vinegar. With this solution, you can effectively kill small weeds, but it does not work well with perennials.
To make this, take ½ cup of salt, 2 tablespoons of dish soap, and ½ gallon of vinegar. Even if it is a great way to kill weeds, it can be toxic for humans and animals.
The Bottom Line
Roundup is a dangerous herbicide that can lead to health issues in humans. Even then, this product was used on American farms for over 50 years. That is why agricultural workers developed cancer and other neurological disorders over time.
Hence, iron-based herbicides, corn gluten, boiling water, etc., can be a great alternative to Roundup. They are safe and environmentally friendly.
Using these will kill the weeds and keep your soil safe. However, you need to ensure to use it when humidity is low and after the morning dew has disappeared. Make sure to wear protective gear and apply the products only to the unwanted weeds.