Opinions on garden flame-throwers

[Bayard]

Anyone use a propane torch for weeding? Is it a pain to use? Recommendations,.

Getting ready for spring, and the weeds left over from last year

[mopinko]

1. thinking about getting one myself. have used a plumber's torch for scrub trees.

i am thinking of getting a roofer's torch. got a fence full of mulberry saplings to deal w.

[GP6971]

2. I have one.

They're good for flower beds and for eliminating weeds in driveway expansion joints. The problem is using it on lawns...it takes out the grass around the weed.

[Drifter]

3. I could see that

It really is not intended to be used on established plants (like lawn weeds).
Flame weeders are used to kill very small weeds within a few days of germination.
This germination is encouraged by a process called "stale seed bedding".

This is a technique that SPIN (Small Plot INtensive) farmers use.

Otherwise, I love using it.

Cheers
Drifter

[Bayard]

4. Any particular type or brand?

[GP6971]

5. I got mine from Amazon.

Houseables Weed Torch, propane, 20,000 BTU. About $38 IIRC.

Also great for melting small amounts of snow and ice.