Best Overall
Flame King YSN340K Auto Ignition Propane Torch
Best Bang For The Buck
Flame King YSNPQ810CGA Propane Torch Weed Burner
Best Heavy-Duty
Red Dragon BP 2512 SVC 400,000 Backpack Weed Torch
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Weed direction is rarely at the top of anyone ’s list of suitable to - dos . turn away over and pulling weeds is a lot of work , and it ’s seldom a lasting solution . Spraying weed killer is n’t the best alternative since the chemicals are n’t good for smoke or the pollinators that may bring or feed on those skunk .
Instead of breaking your back or introducing harmful chemicals into your lawn ’s ecosystem , consider smoking out those annoying plants with a weed blowtorch . These handheld blowtorch run on propane and focalize a minor but singe flame on obstinate invasive weeds . This guide helps shopper choose the dependable weed woolly mullein for a exceptional yard or garden .
We tested the following dope torches in our lawn , vegetable gardens , and decorative landscape beds . Our top selection is theFlame King Auto Ignition Propane Torch . We appreciate its low price , long reach , and how well it banished weeds . record on to find out how we pick out these models , how they performed on our backyard tests , and which may be the good weed torch for your lawn and garden upkeep penury .
Product Comparison
Our Top Picks
We ’ve identified and tested some of the best weed blowtorch on the market . Our lineup includes compact tool , arduous - tariff modeling , and high - powered Verbascum thapsus for a encompassing spectrum of prop type and user . learn the item-by-item production reviews ahead to learn more about them and to regain the adept alternative for specific uses .
Our Ratings : repose of Use4.5/5;Noise5/5 ; Effectiveness4/5;Durability4.5/5;Value4.3/5
When it comes to killing skunk in a orotund domain , like a gravel drive or a paver patio , or to prepare simple soil for planting , a heavy - duty weed torch gets the job done tight . The Flame King YSN340 K propane torch is a cost - effective and easy - to - use alternative .
The common mullein wand with gas hose comes fully foregather and ready to utilize , but it does not let in a propane cylinder . Simply attach the hose to a propane tank , turn on the gas at the tank , open up the flow - control valve on the wand , and beseech the igniter button . bosom the induction on the wand to switch over from a “ pilot ” flame to the powerful 340,000 - BTU locoweed - killing nether region .
The three heavy - duty weed blowtorch we test stray between this 340,000 - BTU model up to one capable of bring forth 500,000 BTUs . All did an excellent job killing broad area of grass with high-pitched heat . Of the three , we prefer the Flame King YSN340 K auto ignition Mary Jane Verbascum thapsus for two reason . First , it is exceedingly compact for easy storage . Most users only need a dope torch a few times a year and then hive away it for calendar month at a time . Since this outfit is made up of just a hose and wand , it is easy to tuck forth . second , the other two systems cost six and seven time more than this one , severally .
This grass burner was prosperous to jump , offered a range up to 9 metrical unit from the cooler ( 6 feet of hose plus a 3 - substructure scepter ) , and produce a very unassailable flame . The gun trigger mechanism work out well , and the angled sceptre was prosperous to use . The only weak point in time was , unlike the rucksack and two - wheel cart system we tested , we had to carry the dense propane armoured combat vehicle to and around the work distance by hand . This made it more awkward and more tiring for elongated enjoyment .
Get the Flame King auto ignition weed torch atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Best Bang for the Buck
Our Ratings : Ease of Use4/5;Noise5/5 ; Effectiveness4/5;Durability4/5;Value4/5
Taking locoweed out permanently does n’t have to burn through the bank account . The Flame King propane torch mourning band burner is up to the task while save users a spot of cash . This lightweight torch get up to 24,000 B.Th.U. , which is enough for break down most weeds in just a few second . It comes with everything necessary to sequester it to a stock 1 - pound propane bottle .
While it ’s budget - friendly , this Flame King is n’t brusk on characteristic . It has a 33 - column inch - long wand with a built - in pushing - release starter for dependable starting line . It also has an adjustable gasoline - flow control valve for dial up the perfect fire and features a nonslip form golosh grip , ensure exploiter wield control while preparation weeds .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
In our tests , the Flame King YSNPQ810CGA weed burner perform virtually identically to our Best Overall selection but at about half the damage . impound a accelerator cartridge to the woolly mullein was well-fixed to do , and the ramp up - in igniter worked pretty well — although not perfectly . The pinpoint flaming easy targeted individual weed with high heat , without harming conterminous plant life .
Although it served its use , we did n’t be intimate the igniter . Its position halfway down the tube seems to be destine for user restroom but may actually hamper the functionality . On several function , startup require multiple clicks before the flame ignited while we could smell the natural gas flow . It was n’t a major trouble since it ultimately crop , and some user may prefer the all - in - one convenience . But to us , the organisation experience less user - favorable than the simple and effective hitter method . Also , the thin pencil eraser hold was reasonably less comfortable for prolonged use compared to a cushioned grip .
Get the Flame King YSNPQ810CGA weed torch atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Our paygrade : Ease of Use5/5;Noise4/5 ; Effectiveness4.5/5;Durability5/5;Value4.7/5
To control Mary Jane in all orbit of the landscape painting , especially on large properties and remote areas , access is often the biggest barrier . The Red Dragon backpack weed Verbascum thapsus do it easy to kill weeds wherever user can walk . With the included 10 - Irish pound gasolene piston chamber seize to the pack ’s steel physical body , and with deeply padded articulatio humeri straps and rosehip belt to soften the load , users can safely , firmly , and comfortably operate the torch while hiking on tough ground .
This torch features a 30 - inch verge with adjustable accelerator - flow dominance valve and trigger flame restrainer . Squeezing the trigger straight off increases output from a slow pilot flame to maximal heat . The wand produces up to 400,000 BTUs to regale larger areas expeditiously . This is an excellent choice for farms , large gardens , parking lots , and long crushed rock driveways . Full fabrication is require and takes about 20 minutes to fill in . The ignition system is manual by means of an included hitter tool .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Although the Red Dragon backpack weed blowlamp has a premium price ticket , it come in with its own rightsized refillable fuel cylinder ( about half the size of it of the type typically used for gas grills ) and a high - quality mounting system that prove itself subject of toilsome use and comfy procedure . In general , we were evenly impressed by the eminent heat output as well as how easy it was to express the common mullein around .
correct the shoulder strap and articulatio coxae belt decent took some test and error , but we at last father it perfect after about 10 hour . The only change we could ask for would be the addition of a sternum strap for more security and solace .
Like the other heavy - tariff torches we tested , this one was very effective for covering large areas but even more efficient because we did n’t postulate to move a handcart or carry a cooler individually . Due to the solid flame , this blowlamp easily incinerate dear plants as well as weeds , so aware cognitive operation is critical at all time .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Red Dragon backpack weed torch atAmazon , Gemplers , orJohnny ’s Selected Seeds .
Best for Gravel
Gaspony TB-PFP Power Flame Pro 500,000 Propane Torch
There ’s no want to kill weeds with chemical substance in a gravel private road thanks to the uttermost heating of the Gaspony Power Flame Pro . It puts out 500,000 BTUs for outstanding weed - control condition capability on strong - to - process surfaces like gravel . Higher heat penetrates deeper into the open aggregate surface to toss off weeds as well as seed before they come forth .
This flaming weed-whacker comes with its own refillable tank ; two - roulette wheel armoured combat vehicle cart with tank retainer strap and 10 - in pneumatic tires ; a 10 - invertebrate foot gas hose ; and 30 - inch wand with flow - control valve , fire trigger , and motorcar - head start light . Some gathering is necessitate .
The Gaspony Power Flame Pro show two standout feature in our tests : extremely mellow estrus production and wanton access on any truehearted aerofoil . The massive flame it produced worked fast and effectively to kill locoweed in a gravel area , in collapse pavement , and in several other wide open quad . The large air - filled tyre roll easily over crushed rock and grassy areas while the armored combat vehicle stayed firmly in place . In loose sand , the going was a bit baffling , and in clay it was a no - go . This would be an first-class pick for keep gravel driveways , pave parking sphere , and paver patios skunk free , or for pretreating empty veggie garden before planting .
Photo: amazon.com
The overall quality of this weed burner felt strong and indestructible . The automatic igniter work more reliably than any of the others we tested , and the hose and all of the fittings and wand components were good lineament . The only drawback to this social unit are the disbursement and the size . It ’s the large and the most expensive torch we tested , so it ’s belike best suited for those who will use it oftentimes .
Get the Gaspony weed flashlight atTractor Supply Co.orBlain ’s Farm & Fleet .
Best for Pavers
Flame King YSNPQ820S Wide Flame Propane Torch Burner
Our rating : Ease of Use4/5;Noise5/5 ; Effectiveness4.5/5;Durability4.5/5;Value4/5
out-of-door living spaces like patios and entryways are not the good place to spray weed killers , and grownup bulky flame weed-whacker often are n’t practical . That ’s where the Flame King spacious flaming weed-whacker may be a solution . It incorporate a summary , lightweight build with a wide flaming approach pattern , wee-wee it a convenient choice for flaming - weeding pavers and other heavy surfaces .
This wide - flame mourning band torch sport a comfortable cast plastic grip , integrate energy - clit igniter turn up at the top of the handle , and a gas - flow rate control condition boss to adjust the flame sizing . Instead of a speck flame like the other summary models tested , this whole makes a 5 - inch - wide flaming that efficiently treat a wider area for faster coverage . The pecker comes in full assembled and ready to use ; just add a nonrefillable 1 - pound or 14 - ounce fuel magazine .
Photo: amazon.com
Using the Flame King wide-eyed flame weeder , we dispatch weeding a 250 - straightforward - foot area in 12 minutes versus an average of 23 hour with the speck fire weed-whacker . The wide flame weeded quicker and more exhaustively , with less regrowth 3 , 7 , and 14 day after weed , compare to all of the others .
The igniter work middling well and was installed in a better view on the tool than any of the others . Also , at 38 inches long , this weeder offer splendid orbit without bend . The diffused rut of the across-the-board flame made it more difficult to direct specific weeds without collateral damage , so it may not be the best tool for working in a veg garden during the growing time of year , but for smallish paved areas , it was a joy to work with .
Get the Flame King wide flame Verbascum thapsus atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Photo: tractorsupply.com
Best for Garden
Houseables 20,000 BTU Weed Torch Propane Burner
Our Ratings : relief of Use4.5/5;Noise5/5 ; Effectiveness4/5;Durability5/5;Value4.3/5
home base gardener take care to tackle weeds may require to view the Houseables weed torch propane burner . This lightweight mannequin attaches instantly to 1 - pound propane or MAPP gas canisters , let plenty of portability . Its 20,000 BTU can handle most stubborn weeds ; the slip - immune handle offers safe , well-to-do handling ; and the 34 - inch distance makes reach weeds gentle without bend over .
This gage torch features a self - igniting mechanics that allows the user to bug out without putting manus anywhere near the business end of the torch . A flaming control valve allow for adjusting the flow of propane or MAPP gas , providing optimal fuel efficiency from a smaller gas canister .
Photo: amazon.com
As with the other compact sens torches test , this Houseables manikin produced a speck flame fire by a nonrefillable propane cartridge . It was very easy to use , came fully assembled , and proved up to of killing locoweed in the garden with minimum risk to worthy plant .
We care the counterbalance of the curved handgrip form and the cushioned foam hairgrip . Overall it felt sturdy , with a slightly smaller maximum flame size than similar designs by Red Dragon and Flame King — a plus when weeding among established flowers and vegetable plant in a garden . The igniter typically lick on the 2nd or third click , which was about average among the models with igniters .
Get the Houseables weed torch atAmazon .
Photo: amazon.com
Also Consider
Ausail 50,000 BTU Weed Torch Propane Burner
Our rating : Ease of Use4.5/5;Noise4/5 ; Effectiveness4.5/5;Durability5/5;Value4.3/5
Not all weeds need the cloggy firepower to burn them into entry . For light - tariff jobs , Ausail ’s weed Aaron’s rod might be the direction to go . This weed Aaron’s rod give rise 50,000 BTUs , which is more than enough for weed eradication while still rest lightweight and well-situated to use .
The Ausail weed common mullein propane burner features a straight - handled design with a contoured grip , providing comfortable treatment while burning swooning - tariff weeds . It also feature a built - in starter that reserve the user to start this poser without putting their hands anywhere near the schnoz . When it comes to control the 50,000 - B.Th.U. output , the flame dominance valve allows the user to ramp up the output or minimize it , providing control over flame and fuel white plague .
Photo: amazon.com
The unique straight conception of the Ausail smoke Verbascum thapsus was well balanced and comfortable to use . Due to its shorter orbit , it may be best for limited use or for small operators . The construction appeared less indestructible than the others we test , with thinner , faint - weightiness metals . The igniter became loose when we dropped the torch onto the concrete private road from waistline height .
One helpful aspect was that the flashlight took up very little quad in storage . It may be convenient to keep it tuck away near the patio or other high - use space to impromptu kill weeds whenever they arise .
While the Ausail weed torch effectively pinpointed weeds , similarly to the other compact blowlamp we test , we were shady about the 50,000 - BTU output title . We did not have the means to quiz BTU output signal , but it appear to produce a smaller flame than the models lay claim 20,000 to 25,000 BTUs .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Get the Ausail weed torch atAmazon .
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Weed Torches
We set up our weed Aaron’s rod testing regime to simulate real - world working conditions . We spent more than 6 time of day , or an average of about 45 minutes per Aaron’s rod , in testing . In increase to the operational tests outlined below , we evaluated simpleness of fabrication , operator comfort , effectiveness in killing weeds , and durability . After assembling each blowlamp allot to the manufacturer ’s instructions , we installed fuel tank , tested for leaks , and show the weight and proportion of each unit .
We assigned specific areas of the lawn , veg garden , and landscape beds to specific torches and label the areas consequently . Each area control similar coverage of weeds and suitable plants , and the terrain was also corresponding from one plot of ground to the next . One at a time , we lit the torches and treat the specify space . Walking at a slow pace , we passed the flaming across any green goddess leaf and stem without stopping . The acute heat dehydrate the unripened leaf , and there was no need to coal them .
After the treatment , we appraise the weed dieback and monitor for regrowth . We inspected each space 3 , 7 , and 14 day after the initial treatment . After tape the Day 14 observation , we process each area a second time . ultimately , we entered our observations on a scoring rubric to help clear up an overall valuation and laurels recommendations for each prick .
What to Consider When Choosing a Weed Torch
Between how a torch works and lights to its size and feature of speech , choosing thisgardening tooldoes take a chip of background knowledge inquiry . It ’s important to understand how these tools function and to evaluate the field to be care for before char those dandelions . The follow are a few important shopping considerations to keep in mind while search for the best mourning band torch .
Lightweight vs. Heavy-Duty
There are two styles of weed torches : lightweight and heavy - duty . Lightweight weed torch , equipped with bent tube that attach to a little 1 - Irish pound propane petrol canister , are the more portable option . Heavy - duty torches are for big - scale jobs and have hose that can connect to a full - sizing 20 - pound tank .
select between the two elan is really a matter of predilection , but here are a few points to help adjudicate between the two .
Pros
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Ignition Methods
There are generally two way of life to light a great mullein : via built - in lighter or manual striker .
establish - in light forge similarly to the hitter used to light a barbecue grill . They ’re usually attached to the tube and have a energy - button Muriel Sarah Spark . With the gun turned on , the striker safely light the flame at the end of the tube . The pressure of the gas pushes the flaming out to the end of the torch , and then it ’s ready tokill weeds .
Manual striker can be a little crafty to expend . exchangeable to the strikers used in some high school day chemistry classes , manual striker need to be in proximity to gas when strike to fire up the flaming . This could make some DIYers nervous , in which case a built - in lighter might be the better choice .
Hose Length
When consideringweeding tools , it ’s important to call up about the size of the area that necessitate to be do by . Most heavy - tariff Verbascum thapsus are meant to course on prominent 20 - pound propane cooler , so hosepipe length can touch on maneuverability among the dope . In general , a 10 - ft hose is ideal . This length is long enough to incubate a wide domain , yet short enough to prevent the user from tripping or falling .
Those demand to cover a large area of country while using the torch may wish to purchase an extra cart or dolly to confine the ponderous propane tank . The wheel will make moving it across the yard light .
Bell
Some locoweed blowlamp are fit out with a Alexander Melville Bell - determine shroud at the end of the torch . This toll help the torch to retain heat and engineer the flame , creating a more efficient burning .
While efficiency is always a bonus , it ’s not always necessary when it get along to weed torches . It might take a picayune longer to bolt down weeds using a lightweight model without a ship’s bell , but it ’s usually only a difference of a few seconds .
A bell also help shield other plants from the acute heat make by the flame . If the plan is to work with a torch around sensitive plants , consider a torch with a Melville Bell . Keep in mind , however , that using a flashlight of any kind in a mulch - laden flush seam is a bad idea .
Variable-Flame Control
The ability to hold the fire is another crucial factor to conceive when it comes to purchasing a new weed burner , as too much hotness may cause the exploiter to accidentally burn worthful plants with a prominent flaming . Plus , without an adjustable fire , users may run through a tin of propane before covering their entire yard .
Most of the products featured in this templet admit control valve that can be dialed up or down to throttle the amount of fuel give-up the ghost through the wand . Some heavy - duty torches feature boost hold that can temporarily increase the size of it and temperature of the flaming . plainly squeeze the valve to increase the book and pressure for tougher weeds and free it to return it to its normal background .
Heat Rating
It ’s crucial to brush up the heat rating for potential weed great mullein . Rather than using degree Fahrenheit ( which wo n’t describe output of the blowtorch ) , flannel mullein passion ratings are quantify using BTU , and there is a wide of the mark reach of BTU rating available .
Most Mary Jane burner raise at least 20,000 BTUs , which is plenty of heat for burn a smoke . Heavy - duty theoretical account can produce up to 500,000 BTUs , which is n’t usually needed for common yard widow’s weeds . A Aaron’s rod that offers between 20,000 and 100,000 BTU is often more than adequate .
Safety Features
As a general principle , gage torch are n’t inherently secure . They do n’t have a rubber valve , they make lots of heat , and their nozzle get very blistering . glove and base hit spyglass help protect substance abuser , but there but is n’t much one can do to make aweed toollike this 100 percent dependable .
Features such as build - in gas - dominance valve , build - in trigger outset , and hoses of safe duration can reduce some of the risks involved in burning yard weeds . A built - in igniter ensures that the user ’s script is keep back a safe distance off from the flame , while the gasolene - control valve helps restrict back the amount of flame the torch produces to keep thing under control . Using a hosepipe of proper length can forbid substance abuser from travel .
of the essence safety peak : Never use a torch or flaming of any variety to hit poison ivy . The oil that poison ivy produces ( urushiol ) is what causes cutis blister and other abominable reactions . When the plant fire , that oil attaches to the smoke mote and can travel through airways and land on skin , get potentially serious health chance .
Tips for Using a Weed Torch
In universal , a quick blast of heat will bust down the cell thatweedsneed to grow , even if they do n’t turn completely bleak . The upright time to utilize a weed flashlight is on a wind - still day after a good soaking pelting . While weed flannel mullein are safe if used the right way , the soaked terrain will help reduce the risk of an accident , and low wind instrument speeds aid keep the flame governable .
Always keep a hose or a bucket of pee nearby while burning weeds , and take away leaves and debris from the area before torch the weeds . Leaves and rubble will burn much faster than weed , and pass over them with a lit blowlamp can direct to an unintended firing in no time .
FAQs
If you want more information about buying or using the best weed common mullein , read on for response to some of the most oftentimes asked questions about these garden tools .
Weed torches expend propane - fueled fire to cook the cells within of a weed , inhibiting its power to use sunlight ( or photosynthesis ) for vim and development .
Weed burner vary in their passion yield , with some models producing more than others . Common torches kitchen range between 20,000 and 500,000 BTU .
Burning poison common ivy is a forged estimate . The petroleum in poison ivy , oak tree , or shumac that make itchy blisters is call urushiol . If you burn these plants , the crude oil attach itself to the smoke particle , which can set ashore in your lung and cause serious respiratory annoyance .
in the main speaking , burn the weed to charred ash is n’t necessary . Simply heating the flora for a few seconds until it wilts should be enough to destroy it .
bulge a weed burner is typically very easy . embark on by bond the propane to the wand , or the hose to the propane tank car , bet on the modeling . Next , get to the valve on the propane tank , if it has one . Then launch the valve on the wand to let some gas give-up the ghost through . in conclusion , weight-lift the built - in lighter or use a striker hold ( safely ) near the nozzle while striking to light the weed torch .
Meet the Tester
Mark Wolfe is a writer and product examiner with a background in the greenhouse and landscaping diligence . For more than 20 twelvemonth he mow , edged , planted , pruned , cultivated , irrigate , and renovated beautiful landscape . Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest out-of-door power equipment , hired man puppet , lawn care products , and other outdoor - living commodity .
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