Weeds can become a persistent problem for garden enthusiasts and homeowners alike. These unintended guests invade our gardens, competing with the plants for water, nutrients and sunlight, which often leads to the untimely demise of the plants. While there are various methods available today to tackle weed growth ranging from mulching, hand-pulling, and the use of herbicides, there is yet another surprisingly effective method emerging on the scene, i.e., using a blow torch.
A blow torch, or weed torch, is a unique tool employed to kill weeds by essentially ‘burning’ them. This may sound extreme but is however a method endorsed by many professionals across the field.
But before we delve deeper, it is important to recognize and understand that safety is of paramount importance when working with a blow torch. Always ensure you’re equipped with protective gear, including safety goggles, fireproof gloves, and boots, and have a source of water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of any unexpected flare-ups.
Using a blow torch on weeds doesn’t literally mean burning them to ashes. The exact process is a bit more nuanced. The intense heat of the blow torch damages the cellular structure within the weed, causing them to dehydrate and eventually die. This process is known as ‘flaming’.
When it comes to selecting the best blow torch or flame weeder, consider the size of the area that needs to be cleared. The choice of the ‘best burner for weeds‘ will significantly depend on this. For smaller garden spaces, a handheld propane torch would suffice. For larger spaces, a push-along wheeled unit with a larger, hotter flame might be more suitable.
One of the appeals of using a blow torch is the ease of use. All it requires is to light the end of the torch and pass the flame over the weed briefly. Remember, the aim is not incineration but dehydration. So, a swift pass with the flame should be enough. The weed does not have to be visibly burned to be effectively killed. After flaming, the weed should look slightly wilted, changing color to a darker green or black. This indicates the successful destruction of the weed’s cell structure.
Ideally, a blowtorch is highly effective on young weed growth, around two to three weeks old. The flame destroys the foliage, and if the weed is young enough, it may not have the energy reserve to regrow. Timing is crucial when using this method of weed control.
Blow torching has its set of pros and cons. On one side, it’s an eco-friendly solution that doesn’t require you to use harmful herbicides. It’s also efficient, killing the weed almost instantly, and eliminating the physical labor associated with pulling weeds manually.
On the downside, there’s a fire hazard risk, and it’s not selective. Meaning, if you’re not careful, you could end up killing your plants along with the weeds.
Killing weeds with a blow torch can be an effective method if done correctly and with proper safety measures. Ensure you have the best burner for weeds depending upon your requirements and always exercise caution when dealing with fire. Happy flaming!