18 Ways to Use Vinegar in the Garden

February 2, 2023

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Vinegar is a versatile household item that can have many uses in the garden. From weed control to cleaning garden tools, vinegar can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for garden maintenance. Not only does it help keep your garden looking beautiful, but it also helps create a healthy and safe environment for your plants to thrive in.

In this article, we’ll take a look at 20 ways to use vinegar in the garden and the benefits of using it as a gardening tool. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will provide you with valuable information on how vinegar can enhance your gardening experience.

What is Vinegar?

Vinegar is a sour-tasting liquid made from the fermentation of ethanol. It is commonly used as a condiment and ingredient in cooking, as well as a cleaning agent and preservative.

Vinegar is made by exposing an alcoholic liquid, such as wine or cider, to air, which allows bacteria called acetic acid bacteria to convert the alcohol into acetic acid. This process is known as acetic acid fermentation.

Vinegar can be made anywhere in the world where the necessary ingredients and conditions for fermentation are available. Some of the largest producers of vinegar include China, the United States, Italy, and France.

The history of vinegar dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its use as a condiment and preservative found in ancient Babylon and Egypt. Throughout history, vinegar has been used in a variety of ways, including as a food seasoning, medicinal remedy, and cleaning solution. Today, vinegar is an important ingredient in many cuisines around the world and is widely used in household and industrial applications.

Types of Vinegar

There are many different types of vinegar, each with its own unique flavor and characteristics. Some of the most common types include:

Apple cider vinegar: Made from fermented apple cider, this type of vinegar is commonly used in cooking and as a natural remedy.
Balsamic vinegar: Originating from Modena, Italy, this dark and sweet vinegar is made from grape must and has a complex, fruity flavor.
Distilled white vinegar: This clear and colorless vinegar is made from diluted grain alcohol and is commonly used for cleaning and as a food preservative.
Rice vinegar: Made from fermented rice, this type of vinegar is light and mild in flavor, making it popular in Asian cuisines.
Red wine vinegar: Made from red wine, this vinegar has a strong, tangy flavor and is commonly used in salad dressings and marinades.
Malt vinegar: Made from barley malt, this vinegar is commonly used in the UK as a condiment for fish and chips.
Horticultural vinegar, also known as weed killer vinegar, is a type of vinegar that is formulated to be stronger and more concentrated than traditional vinegar. It’s made from diluting industrial strength acetic acid and is often used for weed control in gardens and landscaped areas. Horticultural vinegar is also sometimes used for cleaning hard surfaces such as driveways and sidewalks.

Vinegar to Clean Clay Pots

To clean clay pots in the garden using vinegar, follow these steps:

Fill a large basin or bucket with equal parts warm water and white vinegar.
Submerge the clay pots in the vinegar solution and let them soak for at least an hour or overnight for stubborn stains.
Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away any dirt or buildup on the pots.
Rinse the pots thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual vinegar and dirt.
Allow the pots to air dry completely before reusing them.

Note: Be careful not to use vinegar on any clay pots that have already been sealed with a waterproof coating, as the vinegar may remove the sealant. It’s also important to avoid using vinegar on porous clay pots, as the acidic solution may cause the pot to become brittle and crack over time.

Vinegar to Keep Fruit Flies Away

To use vinegar to keep fruit flies away, follow these steps:

Fill a small bowl with equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
Add a drop of dish soap to the bowl and stir to combine.
Place the bowl in the area where fruit flies are present, such as near a fruit bowl or near a compost bin.
The fruit flies will be attracted to the vinegar solution and will get stuck in it once they touch the surface. The dish soap will help break the surface tension of the solution and prevent the fruit flies from escaping.
Replace the solution every few days or as needed, as the vinegar will become contaminated with fruit fly bodies over time.

Note: To prevent fruit flies from appearing in the first place, be sure to keep fruits and vegetables stored in the refrigerator and properly dispose of any overripe or rotting produce.

Vinegar as an Herbicide

Vinegar can be used as a natural herbicide due to its acetic acid content. The acid in vinegar can kill weeds by disrupting their cell membranes and drying them out. However, vinegar’s effectiveness as an herbicide depends on several factors, including the strength of the vinegar solution and the type of weed being treated.

It’s important to note that vinegar is not selective and will kill any vegetation it comes into contact with, so it should be used with caution around desirable plants. Additionally, vinegar has a limited residual effect, so repeated applications may be necessary to effectively control weeds.

Here’s how you can use vinegar as an herbicide:

Prepare the vinegar solution: Use a 5-10% solution of vinegar and water. A stronger solution will be more effective, but also more likely to harm desirable plants.
Apply the solution: Pour the solution directly on the weeds you want to kill, taking care not to splash it on surrounding plants. You can also use a spray bottle for easier application.
Timing: Apply the vinegar solution on a sunny day when the temperature is above 60°F (15°C). This will allow the solution to evaporate more slowly and increase its effectiveness.
Repeat application: Vinegar has a limited residual effect, so you may need to repeat the application several times to effectively control the weeds.

Always use vinegar with caution and avoid getting it on desirable plants as it can cause damage. Also, be mindful of using vinegar in areas where it may be harmful to the environment, such as near bodies of water.

Vinegar for Cleaning and Sanitizing Outdoor Furniture

Vinegar can be a good cleaning and sanitizing solution for outdoor furniture. The acetic acid in vinegar is effective at removing dirt, grime, and stains. Additionally, vinegar is a natural sanitizer and can kill bacteria and other harmful microorganisms on the surface of the furniture.

It’s important to note that vinegar should not be used on all types of outdoor furniture, as it can cause damage to some materials such as wood. It’s always a good idea to test the vinegar solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the furniture first to make sure it won’t cause any damage.

Here’s how you can make a vinegar solution to clean outdoor furniture:

Combine ingredients: In a spray bottle, mix equal parts of water and white vinegar. For extra cleaning power, add a few drops of dish soap to the solution. Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients well.
Apply the solution: Spray the solution onto the furniture and let it sit for several minutes. Use a scrub brush or cloth to agitate the solution and remove dirt and grime.
Rinse the furniture: Rinse the furniture with water to remove any remaining vinegar residue.
Let it dry: Allow the furniture to air dry completely before using it or covering it.

Vinegar as an Ant Repellant

Vinegar can be an effective ant repellent. The strong odor of vinegar masks scents that ants use to find food and navigate, making it difficult for them to find their way into your home.

Here’s how you can use vinegar as an ant repellent:

Make the solution: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. You can also add a few drops of dish soap to the solution to help it stick to surfaces.
Apply the solution: Spray the solution along ant trails and at entry points into your home. You can also use the solution to clean countertops and other surfaces where ants may be present.
Repeat application: Ants may return after the initial application, so repeat the process as necessary.

While vinegar can be an effective ant repellent, it’s not a long-term solution and ants may eventually find their way back into your home. Additionally, vinegar should not be used on all surfaces, so be sure to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area before using it more widely.

Vinegar for Preserving Fresh, Cut Flowers

The acetic acid in vinegar can help fresh, cut flowers retain their color and freshness for longer by preventing bacteria growth in the vase water.

Here’s how you can use vinegar to preserve fresh, cut flowers:

Prepare the vase: Fill a vase with warm water and add 2 teaspoons of white vinegar and 1 teaspoon of sugar to the water. The sugar provides food for the flowers and the vinegar helps to keep bacteria growth in check.
Cut the stems: Cut the stems of the flowers at an angle and immediately place them in the vase with the vinegar solution.
Change the water: Change the water in the vase every 2-3 days and add fresh vinegar and sugar each time.

Some flowers, such as lilies and delphiniums, do not do well in acidic water and may not last as long. Before using vinegar to preserve fresh, cut flowers, research the specific type of flower you have to ensure it will respond well to the treatment.

Vinegar for Cleaning Fresh Vegetables

The acetic acid in vinegar can help remove dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants from the surface of the vegetables.

Here’s the right way to use vinegar to clean fresh vegetables:

Prepare the solution: Mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water in a large bowl or sink.
Clean the vegetables: Place the vegetables in the vinegar solution and let them soak for 5-10 minutes. Use a scrub brush or cloth to agitate the solution and remove any dirt or contaminants.
Rinse the vegetables: Rinse the vegetables thoroughly with water to remove any remaining vinegar residue.
Dry the vegetables: Pat the vegetables dry with a clean cloth or paper towels.

Some types of vegetables, such as mushrooms, are porous and can absorb liquids, so it’s important to rinse them thoroughly to remove all the vinegar. Additionally, vinegar should not be used on all types of vegetables, so be sure to research the specific type of vegetable you have before using it to clean it.

Vinegar for Cleaning Rusty Tools

Vinegar can be used to clean rusty garden tools. The acetic acid in vinegar can help dissolve rust and restore the metal to its original condition.

Here’s how you can use vinegar to clean rusty garden tools:

Prepare the solution: Fill a large container with enough white vinegar to completely submerge the rusty tool. You can also add a few tablespoons of salt to the vinegar to help speed up the rust removal process.
Soak the tool: Place the rusty tool in the vinegar solution and let it soak for several hours or overnight. The longer the tool is soaked, the more rust will dissolve.
Scrub the tool: Remove the tool from the vinegar solution and scrub it with a wire brush or steel wool to remove any remaining rust.
Dry the tool: Wipe the tool dry with a clean cloth and store it in a dry place to prevent future rusting.

The time it takes to remove rust using vinegar will vary depending on the thickness of the rust and the size of the tool. For particularly stubborn rust, you may need to repeat the soaking and scrubbing process several times to achieve the desired results.

Vinegar for Eliminating Slugs and Snails

Vinegar can be used to eliminate slugs and snails because they are sensitive to acidic environments. The acetic acid in vinegar can cause damage to the soft bodies of these pests, making it an effective and natural method of control.

Here’s how you can use vinegar to eliminate slugs and snails:

Prepare the solution: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
Apply the solution: Spray the solution directly on the slugs and snails you see in your garden. The vinegar will cause them to dry out and die.
Repeat application: As new slugs and snails emerge, repeat the process as necessary.

While vinegar can be an effective way to control slugs and snails, it may not be a long-term solution as new pests may continue to emerge. Additionally, vinegar should not be used on all plants, so be sure to research the specific types of plants in your garden before using it.

Vinegar to Increase the Acidity of Soil

Vinegar is used to increase soil acidity because it contains acetic acid, which can lower the pH of soil. Some plants, such as azaleas, hydrangeas, and blueberries, prefer soil that is more acidic, with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. By adding vinegar to soil, you can adjust the pH to meet the needs of these plants.

Here’s how you can use vinegar to increase soil acidity:

Determine the current pH of the soil: To determine the pH of your soil, you can purchase a soil pH test kit from a garden center or online.
Calculate the amount of vinegar to use: A general rule of thumb is to use 1 tablespoon of white vinegar per gallon of water. This can be adjusted up or down based on the size of your garden bed and the desired change in soil pH.
Apply the solution: Pour the vinegar solution over the soil in the garden bed, making sure to distribute it evenly.
Monitor the soil pH: Check the soil pH regularly to monitor the impact of the vinegar and make any necessary adjustments.

Increasing soil acidity with vinegar should be done carefully, as over-applying can lead to soil that is too acidic and can be harmful to plants. Additionally, vinegar should not be used on all types of soil or plants, so be sure to research the specific types of soil and plants in your garden before using it.

Vinegar for Wiping Out Weeds

Vinegar is used to wipe out weeds because it contains acetic acid, which can kill the leaves and roots of many types of weeds. The acidity of the vinegar can damage the cellular structure of the weed, causing it to dry out and die.

Here’s how you can use vinegar to wipe out weeds:

Prepare the solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Apply the solution: Spray the solution directly on the leaves of the weeds you want to control. Be careful to avoid spraying any desirable plants or grasses.
Repeat application: Repeat the process as necessary to control new weed growth.

While vinegar can be an effective way to control weeds, it may not be a long-term solution as new weeds may continue to emerge.

Additionally, vinegar should not be used on all types of plants, so be sure to research the specific types of plants in your garden before using it. Additionally, vinegar is most effective when applied on a sunny day, as the heat will help the vinegar evaporate more quickly, making it more effective.

Vinegar for Cleaning Fountains and Bird Baths

Vinegar can be used for cleaning fountains and bird baths because of its natural cleaning and sanitizing properties. Here’s how to use vinegar for cleaning fountains and bird baths:

Prepare the solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Clean the surface: Spray the solution on the surface of the fountain or bird bath, making sure to get into any crevices or cracks.
Scrub the surface: Using a brush or scrubber, gently scrub the surface to remove any dirt, grime, or algae.
Rinse the surface: Rinse the surface thoroughly with water to remove any remaining vinegar solution.
Repeat the process: Repeat the process as needed to keep your fountain or bird bath clean and sanitized.

It’s important to keep your fountain or bird bath clean to ensure a safe and healthy environment for birds and other wildlife. Additionally, vinegar should not be used on all types of surfaces, so be sure to research the specific type of material used in your fountain or bird bath before using it.

Vinegar for Removing Stains and Odors

Vinegar can be used to remove stains and odors in the garden because of its natural cleaning and deodorizing properties. Here’s how to use vinegar for removing stains and odors in the garden:

Determine the type of stain or odor: Different types of stains and odors require different methods of removal. Be sure to research the specific type of stain or odor you are trying to remove before proceeding.
Prepare the solution: For light stains and odors, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. For tougher stains and odors, mix equal parts of white vinegar and baking soda to form a paste.
Apply the solution: Spray or spread the solution on the affected area and let it sit for several minutes.
Scrub the surface: For tough stains, use a brush or scrubber to gently scrub the surface.
Rinse the surface: Rinse the surface thoroughly with water to remove any remaining vinegar solution.
Repeat the process: Repeat the process as needed until the stain or odor is removed.

When using vinegar to remove stains and odors in the garden, be careful to avoid spraying any desirable plants or grasses. Additionally, vinegar should not be used on all types of surfaces, so be sure to research the specific type of material or plant you are trying to clean before using it.

Vinegar as a Fungicide

Vinegar can be used as a fungicide in the garden because of its acidic properties. Here’s how to use vinegar as a fungicide in the garden:

Prepare the solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Apply the solution: Spray the solution directly on the affected plants, making sure to cover the entire plant, including the underside of the leaves.
Repeat the process: Repeat the process once a week or as needed until the fungus is under control.

It’s important to research the specific type of fungus you are trying to control and make sure that vinegar is an appropriate solution before using it. Additionally, vinegar should be used with caution, as it can burn or damage some plants. It’s best to test the vinegar solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the plant before using it more extensively.

Vinegar to Enhance Germination

Vinegar can be used to enhance the germination of seeds because of its acidic properties. Here’s how to use vinegar to enhance the germination of seeds:

Prepare the solution: Mix one part white vinegar with ten parts water in a bowl or container.
Soak the seeds: Place the seeds in the vinegar solution and let them soak for about an hour.
Rinse the seeds: Rinse the seeds thoroughly with water to remove any residual vinegar.
Plant the seeds: Plant the seeds in soil according to the instructions for the specific type of plant.

It’s important to research the specific type of plant and seeds you are trying to grow and make sure that vinegar is an appropriate solution before using it. Vinegar should be used with caution, as it can burn or damage some seeds. It‘s best to test the vinegar solution on a small, inconspicuous group of seeds before using it more extensively.

Vinegar for Cleaning Faucets

Vinegar can be used to clean faucets in the garden because of its natural cleaning and de-scaling properties. Here’s how to use vinegar for cleaning faucets in the garden:

Prepare the solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Apply the solution: Spray the solution on the faucet and let it sit for several minutes.
Scrub the surface: Use a brush or scrubber to gently scrub the surface, removing any dirt or buildup.
Rinse the surface: Rinse the surface thoroughly with water to remove any remaining vinegar solution.

When using vinegar to clean faucets in the garden, be careful to avoid spraying any desirable plants or grasses. Additionally, vinegar should not be used on all types of surfaces, so be sure to research the specific type of material or finish before using it.

Vinegar for Counteracting Hard Minerals

Vinegar can be used to counteract hard minerals in the garden by adjusting the pH levels of the soil. Here’s how to use vinegar for countering hard minerals in the garden:

Determine soil pH: Determine the pH levels of your soil with a pH meter or soil test kit.
Prepare the solution: For every gallon of water, add one cup of white vinegar.
Apply the solution: Water your plants with the vinegar solution, being careful not to spray it directly on the leaves or foliage.
Repeat the process: Repeat the process every three to four weeks, or as needed, until the pH levels are at the desired levels.

When using vinegar to counteract hard minerals in the garden, it’s important to research the specific type of plants you are growing and the ideal pH levels for their growth. Vinegar should be used with caution, as it can burn or damage some plants if used in excess. It’s best to test the vinegar solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the soil before using it more extensively.

Vinegar to Deter Cats and Rabbits

Vinegar can be used as a deterrent for cats and rabbits in the garden because they do not like the smell. Here’s how to use vinegar to deter cats and rabbits in the garden:

Prepare the solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Apply the solution: Spray the solution on the plants, garden beds, and surrounding areas where the cats or rabbits are causing damage.
Repeat the process: Repeat the process every few days, or as needed, to keep the area smelling strongly of vinegar and deter the animals.

While vinegar can be an effective deterrent for cats and rabbits, it’s important to use it responsibly and not spray it directly on the animals. Vinegar should be used with caution, as it can harm desirable plants and grasses if used in excess. It’s best to test the vinegar solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the garden before using it more extensively.

The Take-Away

Vinegar can be a versatile and natural solution for a variety of tasks in the garden. From removing stains and odors to eliminating pests to cleaning fountains and bird baths, vinegar offers a range of benefits and uses. When using vinegar in the garden, it’s important to research the specific type of task and plants you are working with and to use vinegar with caution to avoid damaging desirable plants or wildlife.

Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting out, incorporating vinegar into your garden routine can help you achieve your goals and maintain a healthy, thriving outdoor space.