I do respect all husbands, but I do not recommend plastic as a weed block - ever. We have so much rain that it causes drainage problems. Most weeds come from above as they float down on top of the gravel. A layer of cardboard then gravel will keep any weeds from below sprouting up. The vinegar and salt mix is great if we have a very hot day but you do realize you are spreading salt (much more toxic than RoundUp) onto the soil. I suggest you use either a flame thrower weeding tool (see next question) or use a product that prevents weeds from sprouting like Preen. There is a Preen for vegetable gardens that is all natural made from corn meal. It forms a barrier that prevents those overhead weed seeds from sprouting. Also if you compact the gravel in the pathways it will prevent many weeds. Every few years I just add another layer of fresh gravel and compact again. Welcome to Washington, Marianne Binetti