Eco-Friendly Ways to Stop Weeds Between Pavers

[Alpha]

Hi everyone,
What are some good ways to prevent weeds from growing between pavers? Are there any eco-friendly, low-maintenance solutions that actually last? Thanks in advance!

[Gardenboy]

Hi there!

One of the best eco-friendly ways to prevent weeds between pavers is to use polymeric sand to fill the joints. It hardens when moistened, which helps lock the pavers in place and blocks weed growth. It lasts longer than regular sand and is pretty low-maintenance once set.

Another option is to spread a mixture of vinegar and water (about a 1:1 ratio) directly onto weeds or into the joints as a natural weed killer. Just be aware that vinegar may need to be reapplied over time.

For a more permanent solution, installing a weed barrier fabric underneath the pavers during installation can help, though it’s a bit more work upfront.

Keeping the joints swept and well-filled, and occasionally spot-treating any new sprouts, helps maintain a clean look without much hassle.

Hope this helps!

[Alpha]

Thanks! How often should the joints be checked or refilled to keep weeds from growing back?

[Gardenboy]

You’re welcome!

For polymeric sand, once it’s properly installed, you usually don’t need to refill the joints for several years, unless you notice areas where it has washed out or cracked. It’s a long-term fix, but it’s still a good idea to give the joints a quick check once or twice a year, especially after heavy rains or pressure washing.

If you’re using regular sand or other fillers, you might need to top them off more often, maybe every few months, since they don’t lock in place as firmly.

Spot-treating any small weeds that pop up early will also help prevent them from spreading.

[Alpha]

Is there a gentle way to clean pavers without disturbing the polymeric sand?

[Gardenboy]

Yes, just avoid high-pressure water aimed directly at the joints. A gentle rinse with a garden hose and a soft-bristle broom works well for regular cleaning. For stubborn spots like algae or stains, use a mild dish soap mixed with water, scrub gently, and rinse. If a pressure washer is necessary, keep it on a low setting and angle the spray so it does not hit the joints head-on.

[Alpha]

That’s helpful! Will it also work well on older pavers?

[Gardenboy]

Yes, the same cleaning approach works on older pavers too. The main thing to keep in mind is that older pavers may have joints that are more worn or partially washed out, so be extra gentle around them to avoid loosening the sand. If the polymeric sand is already breaking down in spots, it might be worth topping it up after cleaning to keep the joints sealed and stable. This way you can freshen up the look without risking weed growth coming back quickly.