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12 Best Weed Torches (Review) In 2021

Written by:
Adrienne Wild
Adrienne Wild
Adrienne Wild

Adrienne started her professional life as a gardener at her local parks department and went on to train at the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh where she was the first female student on the prestigious and world-renowned horticultural course run by the Botanic garden. An experienced and award-winning garden writer and past editor of some of Britain’s favourite gardening magazines, Adrienne has for over 30 years, inspired gardeners with a breadth of gardening know-how plus creative and decorative ideas. One of her main aims is to make gardening accessible, even to the smallest green fingers, with her clear advice and straightforward step-by-step instructions. Adrienne loves to travel and has visited, given talks and met ordinary home gardeners in far flung places like China, South Africa, Philippines and Caribbean as well as the UK.

Last Updated: February 22, 2021
Best Choice
Mag-Torch-MT-5000-High-Output-Weed-Burner-image
Mag-Torch MT 5000 High Output Weed Burner
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Best Value
Flame-King-Heavy-Duty-Propane-Weed-Torch-image
Flame King Heavy Duty Propane Weed Torch
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Premium Pick
Red-Dragon-VT-2-23-SVC-Weed-Dragon-Propane-Torch-image
Red Dragon VT 2-23 SVC Weed Dragon Propane Torch
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Show Contents
Contents
  • 1. Mag-Torch MT 5000 High Output Weed Burner
  • 2. Red Dragon Mini Weed Dragon Propane Weed Torch Kit
  • 3. Flame King Heavy Duty Propane Weed Torch
  • 4. Houseables Propane Burner Weed Torch
  • 5. Red Dragon VT 2-23 SVC Weed Dragon Propane Torch
  • 6. Greenwood 91033 Propane Weed Torch
  • 7. Flame King Propane Torch Weed Burner with Integrated Lighter
  • 8. Hot Max 500G Big Max Heavy Duty Propane Torch
  • 9. SPARC Propane/MAPP Gardening Outdoor Weed Torch
  • 10. Bernzomatic Self-Igniting 20,000 BTU Outdoor Torch
  • 11. BISupply Portable Weed Burning Torch with 5 Meter Hose
  • 12. AUSAIL Self Igniting Propane Weed Burning Torch
Award
Brand
Rating
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Award:

Best Choice
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Brand:

Mag-Torch MT 5000 High Output Weed Burner

Rating:

10
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Award:

Premium Pick
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Brand:

Red Dragon VT 2-23 SVC Weed Dragon Propane Torch

Rating:

9
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Award:

Best Value
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Brand:

Flame King Heavy Duty Propane Weed Torch

Rating:

8
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Award:

Budget Pick
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Brand:

Flame King Propane Torch Weed Burner with Integrated Lighter

Rating:

7
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Award:

Heavy Duty Pick
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Brand:

Hot Max 500G Big Max Heavy Duty Propane Torch

Rating:

7

The Best Weed Torch

As a gardener, there is nothing more frustrating than finding a plethora of weeds taking over your garden. Even more frustrating is the reappearance of persistent offenders after you have spent hours removing them by hand! If this sounds familiar to you, then it may be time to consider investing in a weed torch.

A weed burner or torch uses fire to stop the growth of weeds. It slowly heats the plant just enough to destroy the tissue so it dies. You aren’t aiming to burn the plant to a crisp, just enough to kill the cells. This is an alternative to kill weeds rather than using toxic chemicals in your garden that can leave a hazardous residue.

Here, we guide you through the best weed torches on the market and examine the key features to consider when buying a weed burner so that you can select the right product for you.

1. Mag-Torch MT 5000 High Output Weed Burner

Best Choice
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Key Features

    500,000 BTU torch

    Works with 20 lbs tank

    61″ of CSA Certified Hose

    Includes spark lighter

    Adjustable heat level

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Mag-Torch MT 5000 High Output Weed Burner
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Our best weed torch choice comes from Mag Torch and will tackle difficult weeds with ease. It can also be used to melt ice, strip paint, and numerous other outdoor maintenance tasks. The Mag-Torch MT 5000 is extremely powerful and thankfully comes with an adjustable heat output, as it is rare that you would need to use the full 500,000 BTU. The adjustable flame means that you can use it to kill weeds in small areas as well as for larger projects.

You can attach this Mag Torch to any propane tank, with a minimum weight of 20lbs, and off you go! You will need to use the spark lighter to ignite it, but it is straightforward to operate, and the 61-inch hose should be suitable for most garden uses. Due to its incredible power, and the lack of guidance that comes with the product, this is best suited to experienced users who have heavy-duty weeds to eradicate.

    Pros

    Powerful

    Long hose

    Adjustable heat

    Cons

    Not the best choice for light duties

    Lack of instructions

2. Red Dragon Mini Weed Dragon Propane Weed Torch Kit

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Key Features

    Easy to use

    Convenient and lightweight design

    Adjustable flame

    Durable steel construction

    Uses 1lb propane tanks

    25,000 BTU

    Non-slip grip

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Red Dragon Mini Weed Dragon Propane Weed Torch Kit
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The Red Dragon Mini Weed Dragon Propane Torch is an excellent choice if you need a small, precise flame to deal with spot weeds in your yard. It can also be used for lighting barbecues or campfires. It attaches to small propane bottles (1lb) which you will need to purchase separately, but other than that it comes fully assembled. This is very lightweight, so perfect for maneuvering around small areas and targeting pin-point areas. The flame is also adjustable to give you added control.

The Mini Dragon weed burner isn’t the easiest to start using the flint starter, and even with alternative lighters, some reviewers have reported difficulty. For the effective operation of this tool, you will need to ensure that you don’t put the flame tip too close to the garden floor, as the lack of oxygen will cause this small flame to cut out.

    Pros

    Adjustable flame

    Comes fully assembled

    Lightweight

    Cons

    Flint starter is unreliable

3. Flame King Heavy Duty Propane Weed Torch

Best Value
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Key Features

    500, 000 BTU propane torch

    Moulded handle with easy grip

    10-foot hose rated at 350 PSI

    Reverse thread POL safety valve

    Wide nozzle

    Adjustable flame control

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Flame King Heavy Duty Propane Weed Torch
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The Flame King Heavy-Duty Torch is a powerful, multi-functional weed burner. There is an easy-grip handle and adjustable flame level to make it easier to control but be prepared for the power and impressive flames! This weed torch is compatible with propane cylinders from 5lbs to 100lbs and is designed just for heavy-duty tasks. The long, thick hose and large bell width will target vast areas of weeds but is not suitable for small areas that need more precise treatment.

Unlike some models, the Flame King also comes with internal safety mechanisms to restrict propane flow in case of a leak. This product is great value for money and is versatile in terms of reach and the size of tanks you can use. You will need to factor in the cost of a propane tank and the quantity of fuel it will consume.

    Pros

    Long, strong hose

    Adjustable flame

    Safety valve

    Comes fully assembled

    Cons

    High fuel consumption

    Loud

4. Houseables Propane Burner Weed Torch

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Key Features

    Quick-start trigger

    Easily adjustable flame

    Self-igniting mechanism

    Slip-resistant ergonomic foam-padded handle

    Lightweight

    Reaches 34″ in length

    Compact for easy storage

    20,000BTU

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Houseables Propane Burner Weed Torch
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One of the immediately noticeable advantages of the Houseable Weed Burner is the easy ignition. There is no lighter or flint ignition required, you simply need to squeeze the trigger. This is best suited for use with a 16-ounce propane bottle, and as it is a compact, lightweight model, this makes it quite easy to move around the garden. It comes fully assembled and can easily be attached to the propane tank.

There is no hose on this tool, so you are restricted by the set length of the 34inch pole, and it is not especially powerful, but if you intend to use it for kill weeds in easy to reach areas around your yard it will get the job done.

    Pros

    Foam padded, ergonomic handle

    Quick start trigger

    Adjustable flame

    Cons

    Small flame

5. Red Dragon VT 2-23 SVC Weed Dragon Propane Torch

Premium Pick
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Key Features

    Hooks up to any refillable propane tank

    20lb cylinder will give optimal results

    Hand-tighten tank fitting

    Heat up to 2,000-degrees F

    100,000 BTU

    27.5 inch from handle to torch bell

    10ft hose

    2-inch torch bell

    Spark lighter

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Red Dragon VT 2-23 SVC Weed Dragon Propane Torch
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Our premium pick, Red Dragon VT 2-23 SVC Propane Torch is approved by the National Home Gardening Club, so this reassures you of the quality. Red Dragon is a highly reputable manufacturer when it comes to weed burners, and at twice the price of most other torches, you will be expecting a highly effective product. This doesn’t disappoint. Red Dragon have essentially taken their original 500,000 BTU model and regulated it down into a model suitable for those who do not need such a high heat rating weed torches.

The 10-foot hose is long enough that you can leave the gas cylinder on the floor and still cover a large garden area. It measures 100,000 BTU which is plenty powerful for home use and has an added feature of a squeeze trigger. This means you can get an extra boost on tough areas or reduce the flame to save propane consumption as you wish. There is no continuous flame operation.

    Pros

    No tools required

    Relatively long hose

    Adjustable flame

    Squeeze valve for tough areas

    Cons

    Heavy on propane consumption

    Cost

This Red Dragon weed burner can also be easily fitted to a propane tank using just your hands, so no need for a wrench as with other models. It is a very well built model that will efficiently kill weeds and will last you for years.

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6. Greenwood 91033 Propane Weed Torch

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Key Features

    Heats up to 3000 degrees F

    Ergonomic grip

    Turbo blast trigger

    6.5-foot hose

    12-inch wand

    Recommended for 20lb tanks

    Stainless steel nozzle and valve

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Greenwood 91033 Propane Weed Torch
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The Greenwood Propane Weed Torch is best suited for small jobs around your garden, yet the 3000-degree temperature strong enough to tackle tough weeds. It is a small, affordable model that is quite user-friendly and comes with a turbo boost option if you want some extra power or intensity. It is also constructed with a stainless steel nozzle and valve making it more durable than similar tools.

The drawbacks of this weed burner relate to the hose and wand. The hose is relatively thin, so is likely to need replacing quickly. The wand itself is only 12 inches long, meaning your hands will be close to the open flame, which isn’t ideal. The Greenwood torch is, however, one of the few weed burners that comes with the necessary wrenches included, which is a thoughtful touch.

    Pros

    Well designed handle

    Turbo blast trigger

    Steel construction

    Wrenches included

    Cons

    Short wand

    Flame adjustment is minimal

7. Flame King Propane Torch Weed Burner with Integrated Lighter

Budget Pick
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Key Features

    24,000 BTU

    Compatible with 1lb propane tanks

    Adjustable flame control

    Moulded handle for easy grip

    Integrated self-lighting ignition

    Arrives fully assembled

    33-inch reach

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Flame King Propane Torch Weed Burner with Integrated Lighter
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Our budget pick for best weed torches is another offering from Flame King, and as such comes with the handy self-igniting feature, so starting the tool is an absolute breeze. There is also an adjustable brass valve to control the flame size. There have been a few reviews of the self-igniting function not working as expected, but once it is lit, there don’t appear to be any further issues.

The Flame King Propane Torch Weed Burner attaches to any standard 1lb canisters and is a portable, handheld tool. The reach of the wand is 33 inches, so you can easily tackle pinpoint areas in your garden without getting too close to the flame. At 24,000BTU it isn’t the most powerful of weed torches available but is one of the easiest to use and the most affordable.

    Pros

    Self-igniting

    Portable

    Comfortable handling

    Cons

    Not very powerful

    Some reports of the self-igniting function not working

8. Hot Max 500G Big Max Heavy Duty Propane Torch

Heavy Duty Pick
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Key Features

    500,000 BTU

    Trademarked moulded handle

    Comes fully assembled

    10foot hose

    Boost function

    350PSI hose

    Brass adjusting valve

    POL safety valve

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Hot Max 500G Big Max Heavy Duty Propane Torch
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As you might expect from the name, Hot Max Big Max Propane Torch is one of the best weed torches for heavy-duty work. With 500,000 BTU and a turbo blaster, this weed burner will make quick work of thick weeds and overgrown areas.

It comes fully assembled and has a moulded handle for better comfort and control when operating and the 10ft, highly durable hose is a definite advantage. In fact, this is one of the strongest and longest hoses for a weed burner that we reviewed. The Hot Max is also fitted with a safety valve and has adjustable flame control.

    Pros

    Long, 10ft hose

    Durable 350 PSI hose

    Safety valve to prevent excess gas

    Fully assembled

    Cons

    Included striker is unreliable

    Easy to accidentally squeeze the turbo blaster

The downside of this torch lies with the positioning of the turbo blaster function. It is in a place where it can accidentally be turned on while you are using it, which will give you quite a shock. This isn’t great from a safety perspective.

Some reviews have also reported that the built-in striker of this weed burner is a little unreliable, but this does not seem to be an overly common fault.

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9. SPARC Propane/MAPP Gardening Outdoor Weed Torch

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Key Features

    Trigger start

    Control valve to regulate the pressure of your flame

    Lightweight

    Slip-resistant foam handle

    34 inch length

    20,000BTU

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SPARC Propane/MAPP Gardening Outdoor Weed Torch
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The SPARC Outdoor Weed Torch comes at a low price point and is a great investment for light weeding around your yard. If you are unsure about using a weed torch, then this could be a great starting kit for you as it is very easy to use. There are unfortunately limited instructions that come with this weed burner, but it is still remarkably easy to operate. You attach it on to a propane tank of your choice (small handheld container), and then you are ready to go. There is no need to play around with an igniter or flint as it comes with a trigger that you simply press to start the flame up.

You are able to control the level of the flame, up to 20,000BTU, which is enough for light garden duties, and the slip-resistant handle plus the low weight of the torch make it easy to carry. The long wand also means you can stay a safe distance away from the flame. There is no hose extension, but the 34-inch wand should be adequate.

    Pros

    Great value for money

    Long wand

    Easy trigger start

    Cons

    No hose

    No instructions included

10. Bernzomatic Self-Igniting 20,000 BTU Outdoor Torch

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Key Features

    Flame control valve

    36-inch reach for easy access

    Integrated trigger-start mechanism

    Comfortable handle

    20,000BTU

    High-intensity trigger

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Bernzomatic Self-Igniting 20,000 BTU Outdoor Torch
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The Bernzomatic Self-Igniting Outdoor Torch comes with all the features you would expect from effective weed torches. It rates highly for safety as it has a 36inch wand, so the flame is kept further away from you, and you don’t need to bend down much to complete your task. Great for preventing backache! The Piezo igniter also means that you don’t need a flint light to start the torch, so no danger of burning yourself with a lighter, and there is a valve to control the flame level.

The 20,000 BTU is not overly powerful, but it is enough to take care of small to medium patches of weeds. The brass tip is one of the smallest, so it works well for precision weed removal, and as it is built with cast aluminum, there is a high level of durability.

    Pros

    Long wand (36inch)

    Trigger start function

    Fine nozzle

    Slip-resistant handle

    Good quality construction

    Cons

    Self-igniting may be temperamental

This is a solid tool, with a three-year warranty, compact enough to move around the yard and target light-duty clearing. The self-igniting function can be a little temperamental, but this is a well-performing, safe-to-use weed burner.

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11. BISupply Portable Weed Burning Torch with 5 Meter Hose

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Key Features

    Heats up to 3000 degrees F

    Connects to 20lb propane tank

    Constructed of stainless steel

    Steel jet nozzle

    Durable adjusting flame valve

    Turbo blast trigger

    Natural rubber 5-meter hose with 300 PSI rating

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BISupply Portable Weed Burning Torch with 5 Meter Hose
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The BISupply Portable Weed Burning Torch is one of the best weed torches if a long hose and large heat circle (an area of 4 feet around the flame will get hot) is important to you. The BISupply heats up to 3000 degrees, has an adjustable flame valve, plus a turbo blast option so there isn’t much it can’t do. The 33.5inch wand also means you can operate the torch at a safe distance.

If you aren’t familiar with gas torches, then this isn’t the best tool for you. It needs to be assembled on arrival, and you also need to play around with the gas valve quite a bit to get correct ignition and then a continuous flame. Unfortunately, the manufacturers haven’t included any instructions to help you with set up or operation.

A powerful weed burner but only for those who know what they are doing!

    Pros

    Long wand (33.5inch)

    15 foot (5metre) hose

    Sturdy stainless steel construction

    Turbo blast

    Cons

    Needs to be assembled

    Tank valve needs to be tweaked

    Need to use your own ignition

12. AUSAIL Self Igniting Propane Weed Burning Torch

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Key Features

    Screws onto 14oz gas canister

    Self-igniting

    Adjustable flame control

    Narrow torch head – 1 1/8 inch

    32-inch torch wand

    Ergonomic handle

    High strength refectory steel

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AUSAIL Self Igniting Propane Weed Burning Torch
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The Ausail Weed Burning Torch screws on to propane tanks between 12 and 16oz and can be comfortably carried around the yard. This is best suited for precise targeting of weeds or clearing small areas as it has a narrow torch head and a low level of flame power.

This Ausail torch is constructed with stainless steel, making it a durable model that withstands high temperatures and frequent usage. The 32inch torch wand is long enough to prevent you from getting too close to the flame, or from bending over while using. There have been a few reports of the flame cutting out unexpectedly during operation to it is not the most reliable option on the market.

    Pros

    Easy start

    Lightweight and portable

    Stainless steel durable construction

    Cons

    Not suitable for large areas

    Reviews of the flame cutting out frequently

Features To Consider With Weed Torches

Bell Size

Bell size is also referred to as the size of the torch tip. If you need to tackle isolated weeds in tricky places such as narrow pathways and garden corners, then a small bell size (3/4 inch to 1.5inches) will give you a fine tip and more delicate flame. If you have large areas, then it is best to opt for a 1.5inch to 3inch torch bell.

Flame Control

Most weed burners have a degree of flame control, which determines how intense the heat is. The advantage of an adjustable flame control is that you can increase the heat only to target tough areas, and use a lower level heat elsewhere, thus preserving fuel consumption.

If you are opting for a very high heat rating model (500,000BTU) then an adjustable flame control is almost essential as the top level of power will be unnecessary for many tasks.

Heat Rating

Heat rating is classified in British Thermal Units, and this measures the energy output of the torch. The higher the measure, the more intense the flame will be. The typical range is from 20,000 to 500,000 BTU.

using weed torch

Hose Length

The hose links the torch wand to the propane tank. Most handheld or compact models do not have a hose as it is unnecessary, but if you are using a large propane tank that you don't plan on carrying, it is essential. If you have a large area, then a longer hose will make the burner easy to use as it allows you to move further away from the propane tank.

Safety Features

The best weed torches will come equipped with a few safety features. The key specifications you should look for if safety is a high priority for you is a push-button/trigger ignition, so you don't have to work manually light the torch, and a safety gas valve. The safety gas valve will stop excess gas from flowing when not in use.

Tank Size

The size of the propane tank that weed burners will attach to is an important consideration. Small canisters are usually around 12 ounces, and these are easy to carry around but will empty quickly, so best for small duties only.

Larger gas tanks will give you a better run time but are not portable so you will need to ensure you have an extension hose for the weed torch.

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Weed Torch FAQ

Q: Do you need to reduce the weeds to ash or just brown them?

A:

When using weed torches, there is no need to barbecue your weeds or reduce them to unrecognizable ash. Most will only need exposure to the flame for less than 1 second. If you are not sure that the weed has been heated enough, once it cools you can squeeze a leaf with your fingers. If it leaves behind a fingerprint, then enough flaming has been done.

Q: How many times do you need to use the weed torch to fully kill them?

A:

One treatment may be enough to kill some weeds, but most perennial weeds (which have longer roots) may require a few treatments every couple of weeks to ensure their roots are destroyed.

Remember, that while the best garden strimmer may just cut the heads off weeds, weed torches are designed to kill the plant.

Sources

    Kill Weeds With Heat - Garden.org

    Using a Flame Weeder in Vegetable and Fruit Crops - University of Minnesota Extension

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