Pesky have a knack for flourishing in areas you would rather not see them in, such as sprouting through the gravel path outside of your home; but how do they get there in the first place? often originate from seeds dispersed by the wind, carried by animals, or unintentionally transported on people's shoes.

These seeds begin to grow and spread their roots when the environment is moist and humid, which can lead to the unwanted plant cropping up through cracks in pavements, through gravel, or overtaking other in the area. Like many households, one gardener was keen to find out how to get rid of weeds that have taken root in the gravel driveway.

Turning to the Gardening Hints and Tips Facebook page, Suzie Briggs asked: "I've seen lots of posts lately about the use of white vinegar and salt for weed killing.

"I have a gravel covered drive and can't seem to keep the weeds in check, even using the recommended weed killer for paths. Would they work on the drive or is there something better?"

Group members shared their thoughts in the comments section, agreeing that white vinegar and salt can be effective, but suggesting a more effective household product - washing powder.

Simone Mister commented: "I used to use salt on my alleyway and it works, but washing powder was better for me."

Another commentator, Sarah McEvoy, agreed that the trick works wonders, stating: "I had success with some cheap soap powder and boiling water."

The sentiment was echoed by Vera Hill, who proclaimed: "Laundry powders are amazing on gravel weeds. You can see the results almost instantly."

Elsewhere, a gardening sage from Gardenstone told Ideal Home that washing powder is a more "gentler" alternative to strong chemical weed killer. The garderning pro, Tom Clifford, confirmed that washing powder "will effectively kill weeds".

Tom added: "In addition, washing powder is a regular household object, making it much more accessible and affordable than chemical weed killers."

What makes this method particularly effective is that washing powder contains boron - fatal to plants - meaning any green invaders will start to perish upon contact.

To harness the power of washing powder against unwelcome weeds, liberally sprinkle the granules into gaps on gravel or patios, then douse with boiling hot water. As soon as the weed wilts, a brisk sweep should see them off.

While boiling water is recommended, it's worth mentioning that boiling water will harm any plant it comes into contact with, so special care must be taken when using this method.