No More Digging Or Pulling: The Compact Harbor Freight Find For Removing Weeds From Gravel

Do you have a gravel driveway that gets overrun with weeds while you're not looking? Or perhaps you have a few gravel paths winding around your backyard that you're just tired of pulling weeds from on what seems like a daily basis. If you want to cut down on having to dig out or pull those weeds, take a trip to your nearest Harbor Freight store for a compact tool that can make it easier to remove weeds from gravel: the Chicago electric start propane torch. This handy and compact propane torch just screws onto a standard propane bottle and has its own ignition button, so you don't even need a separate igniter to use it. Keep in mind that you will need to purchase the propane cylinder separately or just use the one you already have at home.

You may have already discovered that a weed burner is the perfect tool for removing weeds from gravel, and you'll find that this is one great option for spot weeding — it heats the weeds and causes the cell walls to burst, ensuring that they die within just a few days. Using a propane torch can also prevent some weeds from regrowing, especially those with a shallow root system. It's a relatively simple way to tackle those pesky weeds because you only have to hold the flame over each one for just a second. Plus, it provides a much more environmentally friendly solution you can substitute for weed killer and is typically quicker than hand-pulling.

Before you begin, make sure that you wear sturdy footwear, eye protection, and gloves. To prevent any mishaps, you only want to use the propane torch to burn weeds that are growing in the cracks between pavers or concrete, and in graveled areas. You should never use a flame to kill weeds that are growing in mulch because you might end up starting a fire. For this same reason, you don't want to use the torch if your municipality has fire restrictions in place or during dry or windy conditions. You also want to avoid scorching toxic weeds because they may release a vapor into the air, which would be dangerous when inhaled and could also cause skin irritation. If you're unsure what type of weeds you're dealing with, it's safer to identify them before using a torch.

Prior to getting started, make sure to grab your hose and have it nearby just in case you need to quickly douse a blaze. It's also a good idea to burn your weeds on a day immediately after it has rained so the ground isn't bone dry. Once you've finished scorching all the weeds, check the area carefully for any signs of smoldering material and hose it down if necessary, because the gravel and paving may stay hot for some time otherwise. Of course, alongside this method, keep in mind other ways to get rid of and prevent weeds from growing, which range from forming a weeding habit to using wood chips.