Environmentally Safe Weed Killer

I often heard and recommended vinegar as a 'greener' weed control alternative to chemical herbicides. Although I have never tried it some additional information on the topic is below.
(from natorp's garden center weekly newsletter/ blog http://natorp.com/wordpress/#tmp)

“Tell me more about killing weeds with vinegar. Does it matter what type of vinegar? Will it also kill the grass?” -No and yes. Doesn’t matter what type of vinegar is used, but the higher the percentage of acidic acid the better it works. And it is a non selective vegetation killer, meaning it kills what you spray it on, weeds, grass, and all. Vinegar is strictly a foliar kill, and does not kill the roots.

Echinacea in the garden

Photo above is a garden in Landenberg, PA one year after planting. Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' with Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' behind and Hydrangea paniculata 'Tardiva' to the left for some late summer blooms. All deer and drought tolerant!

In a different clients garden, Landenberg, PA. Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High'

Same residence, rear hillside garden one year after garden installation. Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High' in center of photo.

Echinacea purpurea, or Purple coneflower, is a eastern and central North American native flowering perennial that every sunny garden must have. They are drought tolerant and deer seldom bother. In recent years plant breeders have developed rather interesting cultivars. These newer varieties showcase yellow, orange, red and even white flowers. They make great cut flowers, butterflies and bees love them and when the seed heads are left in tack over the winter season the birds will appreciate the meal! When designing my clients gardens I often sneak a few in mix, they liven every garden up. Plant some today and everyone wins!