What is the best weed killer for flower beds? We asked our landscape expert

Although glyphosate continues to be studied for its potentially harmful health effects, Roy Altaras explains in an exclusive interview with House Digest that “it's a product that's been around for a long time and is used by many homeowners and professionals around the world,” but that caution should be taken. “Use it only when absolutely necessary and read the directions on the label. It's best to have a professional apply it or, better yet, avoid it altogether.” Instead, Altaras recommends natural-based products to protect ourselves, children, pets and the environment. “Vinegar in a spray bottle is known to do this. It can be mixed with (eco-based) dish soap to help it stick to the foliage of the weeds.”

Mix a quart of vinegar with a cup of salt and a tablespoon of dish soap and you've got a home remedy for weeds at a fraction of the cost. The salt and acetic acid in the vinegar absorb the moisture the weeds need, and the dish soap acts as a surfactant. You may need to apply the remedy several times, though, because it doesn't penetrate the root system. Another quick fix if time is of the essence is boiling water, but it's imperative to control the application so that neighboring plants aren't harmed. “Weed killers are a whole industry; new brands and products are popping up all the time,” Altaras said. “Do your research… always [look] for natural-based products.”