Even though there aren’t any official polls on the subject, I think it’s safe to say that most of us home gardeners view stinging nettles as a major nuisance. Let’s be real: they hurt like crazy if you brush against them, and once they take root, they are a nightmare to get rid of. But here’s a little secret—you can actually use those pesky nettles to help you win the war against *other* weeds in your yard.
Ditch the Chemicals
I’ll be honest with you: brewing up a batch of nettle tea isn’t exactly a spa experience for your nose. In the gardening world, we often call it “nettle manure” or “slurry” for a reason—it stinks! If you have a sensitive nose, you might want to brace yourself. However, the payoff is huge. It’s a completely natural weed killer that won’t harm your soil or neighboring plants like harsh chemical herbicides do. Plus, as an added bonus, this stuff works wonders for getting rid of aphids too.
Finding and Harvesting Your Nettles
To get started, you’re going to need a decent haul of nettles. You can usually find them hanging out at the edge of the woods, near riverbanks, or in overgrown meadows. Nettles love nutrient-rich soil, which is why they’re known as an indicator plant for high nitrogen levels. When you go out to harvest them, don’t be a hero—wear long sleeves, thick pants, and heavy-duty gloves to avoid those painful stings and welts.
How to Make Your Own Nettle Brew
Once you’ve gathered your plants, here’s the simple step-by-step:
- Give the nettles a rough chop.
- Fill a bucket or a large tub about three-quarters full with the chopped plants.
- Pour in water until the container is full.
- Cover it up and let it sit for about two weeks.
If you’re in a hurry, you can make a “quick tea” by using boiling water instead. That version is ready to go in just a day or two. To tackle your weeds, you can either pour the liquid directly over them or use a spray bottle for more precision. It’s powerful stuff, so it still works great even if you dilute it with water up to a 1:10 ratio.
