LifestyleGardeningSimon Akeroyd has shared a simple, eco-friendly method to tackle stubborn weeds - even ones that are impossible to dig out on patios, driveways and gravel surfaces08:53, 12 Jul 2026A gardening expert has revealed the "simplest" method for eliminating weeds, claiming his technique even works on those that are "impossible" to remove due to their location. Simon Akeroyd, author of numerous horticultural books, demonstrated exactly how it's done, and the simple method."Are scruffy weeds on on the patio bringing you down?" he asked in a video. "They're impossible to dig out!"Simon began by pointing out that while many gardeners swear by vinegar and other harsh liquids and chemicals, water can prove just as powerful on weeds growing through patios, driveways and gravel. Holding a kettle aloft - a rather telling clue as to his method - Simon went on to show his followers the technique."Boiling water is a solution! Literally," he declared. Simon elaborated: "Many of the vinegars and other liquids suggested by other gardeners on social media do not get to the root of the problem (again, quite literally). They might destroy the leaves but usually the root survives and sends up new shoots."By contrast, Simon explained that boiling water typically destroys the entire weed."If it does manage to come back again it will be much weaker, and a quick second or third dose with boiling water will finish it off," he said.Content cannot be displayed without consentSimon demonstrated his advice by carefully pouring boiling water straight from the kettle onto a troublesome weed."Most weeds will be dead within 24 hours," he continued, gesturing towards one that had completely shrivelled up.He added: "So just pop the kettle on next time you want to get rid of them. Alternatively, you can leave the weeds and enjoy their flowers. I actually like many of the weeds and very often they provide flowers which are good for wildlife and attract pollinators. So don't feel you have to kill all your weeds."Simon rounded off by urging viewers to exercise caution when pouring the boiling water."Hold the kettle close to the plant to avoid it splashing you," he said. "And don't do this near plants you wish to keep for obvious reasons. Only isolated weeds on the patio."The video sparked a wave of appreciative responses from TikTok users.One wrote: "Your timing is impeccable as I just happen to have unsightly weeds growing up in my driveway joints. Thanks. I will give it a try."A second person praised: "Thank you! Rather than spreading toxic glyphosate and killing every living thing nearby, simple boiling water is more eco-friendly!"Article continues belowWhile a third remarked: "My wife has been doing this for years, so easy and non-toxic."Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌TikTokGardeningGardenExpert Advice