Winter annual weeds are often the first ones seen in the spring. The germination process usually begins in autumn and the plants persist over the winter.

They can survive freezing temperatures and be ready to start growing again once the weather begins to warm up in the spring.

In the warmer months, the plant will begin to bolt or send up a flower stalk or stem as its life cycle continues.

However, gardeners could still have weeds on their patio left behind from autumn that need removing.

In a Facebook group named Mrs Hinch Gardening Tips, one user, Avril Simpson, sought advice: “Help, please! I have a large paved area in my garden and have tried many different garden tools to get rid of the weeds growing between the slabs.

“Cannot use weed killer as I have dogs. Any suggestions would be very much appreciated. Thank you.”

The query received a flood of suggestions from fellow gardening lovers, with the top tip being to use a weed burner.

Lynne Cottam recommended: “A gas or electric weed burner might help.” April Grant suggested: “Weed wand, that’s what I use as got dogs too.”

Jane Campey shared her experience: “I also have a large paved area and a dog. For several years, I have kept the weeds at bay by using a weed burner."

“It saves so much time and hard work (and bad back) and [it's] very easy to keep on top of the weeds as they pop up", said Jane.

A weed burner emits thermal heat that destroys the plant's cells without any chemicals.

This method not only eradicates weeds without toxic chemicals but also spares your back from strain.

Fans of cleaning guru Mrs Hinch have also pitched in with their alternative weed control solutions, recommending everything from sand and salt to boiling water.

One follower, Helen Dennis, advised: “Clean out cracks then brush sand and cement mix in when it rains and it will set hard.”

Meanwhile, Patricia Lin proposed a straightforward fix: “Salt spread in between the cracks. Buy 25kg online.”

Vanessa Banks shared her top tip: “Douse them with boiling water and put some ordinary table salt on top.”