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Do weed burners work??

rledonaldsonrledonaldson Posts: 11
in Problem solving
I have a front garden that is over grown with weeds. I am trying to get rid of them. I’ve seen weed burners advertised online that work by burning the weed at the base and killing it off. Does anyone have any experience of using them and know how well they work?? Looking to buy one but want to find out more about them first.

Posts

  • LoxleyLoxley Posts: 5,698
    They don't kill the roots unfortunately, so aren't any better than hoeing. I would go for glyphosate or dig out the weeds by hand.
    "What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour". 
  • nick615nick615 Posts: 1,487
    You're a bit short on detail, e.g. size of front garden, but weed suppressant fabric or lawn mowings will smother the area's weeds, allowing you the pro tem option of putting a few pots on top, or even through it, to improve eye appeal?
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    As @Loxley says - they don't work on roots, only top growth, so it depends where the weeds are and what they are. If in borders, it's as said - hoeing, digging out, or weed killer.
    Most people who have them use them for paved or gravelled areas - paths, patios, car parking areas etc.  :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • IgrowfromseedIgrowfromseed Posts: 284
    The burners are very good in preventing weed seeds germinating. This removes early competition for newly planted veg etc. I know of an organic grower who uses them regularly. 
  • BigladBiglad Posts: 3,265
    I've just done an hour with mine on the drive and paving round the side of the house. Never tried it on weeds anywhere else. I'm not sure how it compares with other weed control measures (in terms of how well it discourages the weeds from coming back) but it is a lot easier on my knees and back ;)
    East Lancs
  • SkandiSkandi Posts: 1,723
    They are perfect for killing weed seedlings without disturbing the soil and bringing up new seeds, other than that they do the same as vinegar or hoeing they remove the leave.
  • Chris-P-BaconChris-P-Bacon Posts: 943
    I'm assuming you mean a proper flame gun as opposed to a heat gun (like a long handled hair drier)
    Yes, flame guns are quite effective if used regularly.
    It's your choice of course but I wouldn't use chemicals of any kind.
    If you can wait, cover with plastic sheeting.
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