Patio and driveway weeds will disappear if you do 1 thing on a windy day in October

Weeds that pop up on patios and driveways can be a real nuisance. They grow in the cracks between paving slabs, creep across gravel paths and make otherwise neat gardens look messy and overgrown. Some people don't mind them and even see their value, as many are wildflowers that support wildlife and soften the look of hard surfaces.

But when weeds start to take over, they can become slippery, cause people to trip, and damage paving or block paths entirely. That's when many gardeners turn to weedkillers or expensive tools, but there's a much easier method that works particularly well on windy or dry days in autumn.

According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the trick is to use a hoe, and time it right.

They explain: "Hoe loose gravel surfaces. Slide the blade of a hoe under the surface of the gravel to kill annual weeds and weaken perennial ones.

"Do this on a warm, dry or windy day so exposed roots dry out quickly. Repeat regularly during the growing season for good control."

This simple technique works because weeds left with their roots exposed in dry or windy conditions won't survive for long.

The lack of moisture and direct exposure to air helps kill them off naturally, without chemicals.

It's especially effective in October when many weeds are still growing but the weather is often dry and breezy.

For paved areas, gardeners can also use a block paving knife or a weeding tool to get between the joints and lift the roots out.

These tools are great for targeting problem weeds like dandelions or chickweed that keep coming back.

The RHS advises using a paving brush with stiff wire bristles to scrub moss and small weeds from cracks.

For deep-rooted plants like dock or creeping cinquefoil, repeatedly removing the leaves and shoots will eventually weaken the roots and stop them spreading.

There are also long-term ways to stop weeds returning. The RHS suggests planting low-growing plants such as creeping thyme, Corsican mint or Mexican fleabane into cracks, which can fill the gaps and crowd out weeds naturally.

Another option is to repoint paving or add a biodegradable weed membrane under gravel paths to block sunlight and prevent regrowth.

The RHS adds: "We do not support the use of weedkillers and recommend that alternative control methods are used."

There are many other ways to deal with annoying weeds. To read all about them, click here.