How to keep weeds/algae out of paving stone joints
While we all want plants to grow in our garden, the one place we don’t want vegetation is between brand-new paving stone joints.
The UK climate is no stranger to rain, and if your garden suffers from poor drainage, you may find problem weeds cropping up more and more. These plants are a year-round issue that our mild climate and periods of rain can exacerbate if not promptly addressed.
So, if you want to learn how to keep weeds/algae out of paving stone joints, stick with Ovation Landscaping, your local supplier of top-quality paving slabs.
Which weeds grow on paths and patios?
Hard surfaces, such as paths, patios, and driveways, often become home to a variety of unwanted plants, especially in UK gardens. They thrive in the narrow gaps between paving, which can then cause damage to any newly placed landscaping products.
You might find weeds like annual meadow grass, a coarse grass that’s often found in UK lawns. There’s also sowthistle, chickweed, oxalis, speedwell and even a perennial called ‘mind-your-own-business’, all creeping, encroaching plants.
Even though there’s limited soil (and a lot of foot traffic), these persistent plants can still flower, produce seeds and multiply. While it’s true that most of these plants don’t damage the surfaces they grow on, they can make areas slippery.
Do I need to remove weeds from hard surfaces?
Technically, no, there’s no gardeners' rulebook that states all unsightly weeds must be removed. In fact, some people choose to let their weeds run wild. They might like the aesthetic it creates or the way it looks between their paving joints.
But if you’ve just laid the last stone and are determined to keep your paving in mint condition, consider the following methods of weed maintenance.
1. Liquid weed killer
The most common method of weed removal, liquid weed killers, are chemical solutions used to control unwanted plants on hard surfaces. They work by being absorbed through the plant's leaves, which then leads to its death.
Some products are non-selective (they affect any plant they come into contact with), while others are selective (targeting specific types of weeds).
You should always apply weed killers according to the manufacturer's instructions. Generally, it's best to avoid using them in wet and windy weather, as this can increase the risk of harming nearby plants.
Ready-to-use products can be applied directly to the weeds' leaves using a spray nozzle. For concentrated solutions, dilute and apply using a watering can with a fine rose or a sprayer.
2. Weed removal tool
Looking to remove as much of the root system as possible? You might fare better with a hand-held weed removal tool.
A weeding knife with a hooked end is useful for removing weeds between paving slabs or along path edges. Forked 'dandelion weeders' are better for tackling deep-rooted weeds like dandelions and docks.
Position the tool at the base of the weed and insert it into the soil or joint where the weed is growing. Use the tool to gently loosen the soil and lift the weed out. To prevent regrowth, try to remove as much of the root system as possible.
It’s that easy! Some roots will be harder to remove than others, but with a bit of elbow grease, you’ll have them lifted out in no time.
3. Electric weeding machine
A less labour-intensive option, electric weeders, have rotating brushes that dislodge weeds. These interchangeable brushes rotate at high speeds to remove plant material from narrow crevices without the need for chemicals.
All you need to do is find a suitable power source and gently guide the machine along the joints. Afterwards, clean the brushes with a damp cloth to remove debris.
4. Pressure washer
The main purpose of pressure washers is to clean dirt, grime or algae off the surface of paving slabs. They emit a concentrated stream of water that can dislodge and wash away surface contaminants. However, they can also be used for weed removal.
Although not a long-term solution (as consistent use can erode the underlying structures and cause water ingress), holding the nozzle at a 45-degree angle and directing the water flow towards drainage points can help remove surface weeds.
5. Use a high-quality jointing compound
If you want to stop weed growth altogether, investing in a high-quality jointing compound is non-negotiable. Properly filled joints reduce the spaces where unwanted growth can take hold.
If your paving needs extra help (e.g., areas that will experience heavy vehicular traffic or foot traffic), consider the ProJoint Titan.
As a two-part epoxy jointing compound, it’s designed for high-strength applications and is resistant to weeds, frost, and pressure washing.
Shop for top-quality paving slabs with Ovation Landscaping!
Now you know exactly how to keep weeds/algae out of paving stone joints, there’s no excuse for not keeping up with garden maintenance!
Shop for the best jointing compounds on the market, and keep your porcelain paving slabs or concrete block paving in top condition. At Ovation Landscaping, we also stock a varied collection of sleepers and posts, decorative aggregates and resin-bound driveways.