Q&A – Can I use a propane torch to kill the weed seeds in my garden?
Question:
Can I use a propane torch to kill all the weed seeds in my garden?
Answer:
The torch will kill some seeds but generally won’t do what you hope it will. Retired UT Extension Agent Mike Dennison says the flame will only kill the seeds on the surface, but there are many seeds several inches underground that will not get cooked by the torch. University of Memphis Director of Landscape Joellen Dimond suggests solarization, where you lay down a piece of plastic over the ground for about 6 weeks in hot weather. This creates a greenhouse that builds up heat and kills the seeds in the top few inches of soil.
Related Resources:
Controlling weeds in home gardens
Weed Control
Soil Solarization
Can I use a propane torch to kill all the weed seeds in my garden?
Answer:
The torch will kill some seeds but generally won’t do what you hope it will. Retired UT Extension Agent Mike Dennison says the flame will only kill the seeds on the surface, but there are many seeds several inches underground that will not get cooked by the torch. University of Memphis Director of Landscape Joellen Dimond suggests solarization, where you lay down a piece of plastic over the ground for about 6 weeks in hot weather. This creates a greenhouse that builds up heat and kills the seeds in the top few inches of soil.
Related Resources:
Controlling weeds in home gardens
Weed Control
Soil Solarization