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Weeds are every avid gardener’s worst nightmare. However, for those willing to bring the heat, it’s possible to get rid of them for good. That’s right — if you’ve been struggling with weeds, a propane torch is about to become your new best friend. Part of what makes propane torches such a beautiful alternative to chemical weed solutions is just how user-friendly they are. No need to keep the family indoors for hours until the chemicals have dried, simply hold the torch above the weed for a few seconds, and you’re good to go.
While chemicals have the potential to wreck the rest of your garden, propane torches are so targeted that their impact is generally limited to the weed itself. What’s more, because you’re zapping the plant’s moisture and killing it at a cellular level, for the most part, it offers a one-and-done solution. All that said, when using a propane torch, there is a right way to go about it. So, just what do you need to keep in mind when using this approach to weeding?
Use a propane torch to pinpoint and destroy weeds
Step one to your weed exterminator journey is to get your hands on a propane torch. Despite sounding like something out of an action movie, they are pretty easy to find, plus, they’re fairly inexpensive. Amazon stocks this option for less than $50. Once armed, it’s time to get to burning — and this step is as simple as it sounds. Simply point the torch at the weed you want to kill and watch the flames do their magic.
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It is worth keeping in mind, however, that you won’t need to completely incinerate the weed to see the difference. As tempting as it may be to reduce the unwanted plant to a pile of ash, as pointed out by Garden Ninja: Lee Burkhill, as soon as the leaves go matte, the job is done. Depending on how long the weeds have been there, you may want to go back in one or two more times. Just a word of caution – once you do see it wilt, resist the temptation to yank it out – especially when the soil is dry. Doing so could spread the weed’s seeds, and you’ll be back at square one.
Remember to do so safely
One thing you definitely don’t want to neglect, when using a weeding torch, is safety. After all, there is still fire involved. The goal is to kill weeds, not the rest of your plants — or worse, put yourself in danger. First things first, pay attention to the weather and to the rest of your garden before picking up the torch. If it’s a windy day, leave the weeding until it’s died down. Dry plants surrounding the weed? Now’s not the time. In fact, even if your garden isn’t particularly dry, it’s safer to torch your weeds when there’s some moisture present, so either pick a wet day to do it, or break out the sprinkler.
Another thing you’ll definitely want to pay attention to is the type of weed you’re trying to kill. For example, if a weed is poisonous, the last thing you want to do is breathe in its toxins. Instead, do some research into the safest approach to take, or, if need be, contact a professional. Weed torches are a great option for the annoying weeds in your garden, but it’s not worth putting yourself and those around you at risk.
