Flame weeding resources

[Peter Smallidge]

Flame weeding is an organic vegetation management technique that has been used in agriculture for more than 50 years.  Flame weeding works by heat treating, typically girdling, the woody shrub stem.  On smaller or herbaceous plants, the heat fully cooks the stem.  Flame weeding has been used successfully in some (not all) situations and species.  There are a number of resources to consider.

 

Here are some ForestConnect webinars that discuss research results related to flame weeding.

• Flame Weeding to Control Invasive Shrubs (by P. Smallidge, 3/2010)
• Integrated Vegetation Management Control Barberry and Lyme Disease (J. Ward, 3/2011)

 

Here are some basic safety points, also available as an attached file

1. Flame temperatures are on the order of 1500^o F or more.  That’s really hot!  Be careful to avoid contact of the flame or the flame wand with anything that might combust or melt. 
2. Have a detailed plan for what you want to accomplish with the flame thrower.  Plan for unforeseen conditions.  Know how to react if someone is injured or a ground fire starts. Have access to the phone number for the local fire department. Pre-advise the local fire department of your plans and seek their input.
3. Flame operators should wear safety glasses to protect eyes from embers and debris.  Hearing protection is often helpful.  Additional useful PPE includes flame retardant gloves, long pants, and flame retardant foot wear.  A water supply for fire suppression should be accessible.
4. Do not operate the flame thrower if you are tired, sick, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.  
5. Do not operate the flame thrower if vegetation is dry or without adequate fire extinguisher capacity.  The best time to torch is during or after a rain event.  Avoid late afternoon torching or otherwise when conditions are dry or windy.
6. Carefully secure propane tanks during travel.  Use appropriately designed pack frames to carry propane tanks.  Check all equipment prior to use.
7. Keep children, unsafe adults, and pets away from the flame thrower.
8. Check connections of the hose to both the flame wand and propane tank to ensure there are no leaks.  Disconnect hose from tank when finished.
9. Novice users should receive training or should experiment under controlled conditions until they are comfortable with all equipment and procedures.
10. Observe area after treatment to ensure there are no hot spots that could ignite.