Weeds Coming Up Through A Gravel Driveway

What's happening?

Paving Expert says that when building a gravel path or drive, weeds in the dug-out ground should be removed, the sub-grade can be treated with a general weedkiller such as glyphosate or a permeable geo-membrane can be used, and that gravel should be deep enough to cover the layers below, at least twice the stone size, because a thin dressing risks being scuffed off and exposing them. For a self-binding gravel, it says a geotextile must not be placed over the sub-base. The RHS says garden weeds can be controlled without chemicals by hoeing, hand weeding, repeated cutting, smothering and barriers, and encourages non-chemical methods because of the environmental impact of weedkillers. Block paving and patio joints are a different page.

What usually causes it?

• A gravel layer that is thin or scuffed off, exposing the layers beneath
• No weed treatment or permeable membrane when the drive was built
• A membrane laid in the wrong place, for example over the sub-base under a self-binding gravel
• Gravel that has migrated away from an edge, leaving thin areas
• Weeds that have rooted in the gravel and have not been removed

Is it dangerous?

No. The RHS says weedkillers have a large environmental impact, can pollute surface and groundwater through runoff and can harm garden wildlife, so check the label before using one on a drive that drains to a lawn or a drain.

Can I fix it myself?

Pull or hoe weeds when they are small and keep doing it. The RHS says hand weeding, hoeing and repeated cutting control weeds without chemicals. Rake gravel back over thin patches so the layer is covering the base, aiming for the 25-40mm Paving Expert describes as about ideal. Fit an edge restraint with a degree of upstand to stop gravel migrating. When relaying, DuPont says its Plantex Pro weed control fabric suits use under gravel and is guaranteed for up to 25 years when covered by 5cm of gravel or mulch; clear the weeds and level the soil first. If you use a weedkiller, follow its label. A drive with a geotextile in the wrong place needs the layers rebuilt rather than treated.

When should you call a driveway and patio installer?

Call a driveway contractor or gardener when the weeds are widespread, the gravel has thinned in many places, or the drive needs relaying with a membrane and base in the right order. A gardener can handle regular weeding and edging.

What will the driveway and patio installer actually do?

• Clear weeds and replenish the gravel to a depth that covers the base
• Fit or repair edging so gravel stays in place
• Lift and relay the surface with a permeable membrane in the right position where needed
• Treat or remove persistent weeds from the base
• Advise on a routine for hoeing and raking

Who fixes this

• Driveway repair
• Gravel driveway installation

Questions people ask

Sources & References

1. Paving Expert: gravel, cinder and hoggin paths and drives
2. RHS: non-chemical weed control
3. Paving Expert: self-binding gravels
4. DuPont: Plantex Pro weed control fabric