Last Updated on October 8, 2022 by Real Men Sow
Home gardeners have begun to use weed torches and flamers in their gardens and yards in recent years. This innovative method is a great alternative to traditional methods of pulling weeds out of the garden or using harmful herbicides. It can be noted that for many years, farmers have employed fire to improve their crops.
Weed Torches are an effective way to remove unwanted weeds from your garden. It requires very little effort and can be extremely efficient. These torches can pose a danger that is not present in traditional methods of weeding. It is crucial to understand the machine and how you can stay safe when using it.
If you wish to eliminate weeds quickly and effectively, adding a weed torch is a good idea. It is essential to research these tools before you make a purchase. We’ll discuss the advantages of these torchers and how to use them so you feel confident using them at your home.
What Exactly are Weed Torches?
Gardeners should learn as much about the equipment before purchasing a weed torch. These are gas torchers that generate intense heat using propane. The tube is made of a long, metal tube and carries the propane to the tip. Although the design is fairly universal, it’s worth looking into additional features before purchasing.
The Cost of the Torch
These types of equipment are available at most garden centers, and range in price between $50 and $90. It should be included in the price, depending on which model you purchased, an extension hose as well as a gas regulator. You must also purchase a propane gas tank. It costs about $25, depending on where you purchase it.
The Tank Size
There are two types of torch: those that attach to a small propane tank directly and those that attach to a larger propane tank but require an extension hose. Although the smaller torch is easier to use, it doesn’t last as long and can only burn for about an hour. Although the larger tank will last longer, it has limitations due to the length of the hose and the gardener’s ability to move the tank as necessary.
Type of Ignition Switch
An ignition switch is the easiest way to use a weed torch. The gas can be turned on and the switch can be hit to turn the flame on. Some flamers can be ignited with a starter tool, but not all are made this way. Both are safe. It is important to choose which one is more affordable for you.
The Overall Burning Time
A larger propane tank will result in a long time of burning. The tip of the torch is also important. A torch with a smaller tip and a larger gas tank can burn longer. The setting can also affect the overall burning time, as a torch that is run at maximum power burns more fuel. You can find out which machine is best for you by looking at their average burning times.
Size of the Burning Tip
The torch’s burning tip, which produces the flame that will be used for killing the weeds, is as expected. Although it may seem more practical to use a large torch tip, the torch can burn larger areas faster. If you intend to use the torch in a garden, however, you might prefer a smaller tip. It is easier to manage. A 1 1/2 to 3 inch tip is best for controlling heavy weed growth. A 3/4 to 1 1/2-inch tip is best for home gardens.
How to Use Weed Torches?
The weed torches heat up the cells of the plants, which causes the weed to burst, and the stem of the plant is destroyed. This is an easy process. Simply hold the torch and walk slowly through the rows of garden to kill the weeds. Weeds should then cease to be glossy and matte within a few hours. You can leave the weed to naturally compost and you don’t need to disturb it.
Flaming annual weeds will destroy them completely, but it won’t kill their roots. Gardeners often see new shoots within a week of flaming. Additional treatments can also be used to kill the roots. Use a weed torch to control weeds in spring and early Summer when they are beginning to emerge. Gardeners will save time and fuel by torching plants early. Smaller weeds don’t require as much heat to burn as mature plants. They can also kill annual weed seeds, which are usually found at the top.
Staying Safe While Using Weed Torches
It is obvious that using a torch to burn weeds can be more dangerous than manually pulling them out. As long as you’re careful, there are many ways to ensure safety when using a torch. These are some steps that you can take in order to be safe.
- It is not a good idea to mix dry weeds or grass with a flame. Torches should be used only during the wetter seasons. It is best to not use it on windy days as flames can spread to unwelcome areas.
- Avoid the flame tip. Despite the fact that this may seem obvious, it is crucial to keep the flame tip from touching the machine. This area should not be touched and it should be kept away from children and pets.
- The flame should be kept away from the tank and extension hose. Use an extension hose or larger propane tank with your torch to light the flame. They can catch fire and prove extremely dangerous.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. To ensure safety and proper use, make sure you read the entire instruction manual.
Benefits of Weed Torches Versus Traditional Weeding
A torch is very beneficial because they don’t use unnatural chemicals and are easy to use. These torches can be used by anyone, even those with injuries. Gardeners have three traditional methods to get rid of weeds in their gardens that are either difficult or dangerous.
Pulling out weeds by hand, individually
If you have a large weed problem, this can take a lot of time. This is easy if you have a small garden and only a few weeds. It is not ideal if you have large areas of unwanted weeds to remove. It is almost impossible to do this for seniors who are unable to bend or pull weeds for long periods.
Using a garden hoe or shovel
Although this is quicker than hand-pulling the weeds it can still be difficult to do and may require more effort. This can also lead to soil erosion and a decrease in earthworms. These are essential for great soil. Bad crops can result from using garden tools to get rid of weeds.
Using store-bought weed killer
This is the most effective and common way to get rid of weeds. Although the chemical glyphosate is low in toxicity, it has been removed from the list of potential carcinogens several times over the years. Avoiding these practices is the optimal way to keep your garden natural and as safe as possible.