If you have tried pulling dandelions by hand, or are sick of kneeling and using a spade or the traditional hand-held pronged weeding tool, you might want to consider one of the following options.
Weeding Device With Plunger
The Weed Hound and UpRoot are two examples of this kind of tool. The best thing about these tools is that they are operated by hand, from a standing position, and do not require batteries, cords, complicated detachable parts or dangerous materials in order to operate them. These devices feature a sharp clawed tool that is positioned directly above the centre of the plant, where the root will be, underground. Push with your foot to make sure the tool descends into the soil, so that the claw is positioned around the root. Using your foot as a lever, simply pull towards your body, and the claw will grip the dandelion root. The whole plant should easily come right up. Once you get the hang of it, you will find that this goes much more quickly than the traditional method of kneeling and prying at roots by hand. The tools also have a plunger attached, so that you can quickly push on the plunger to release the plant. Once the plant is released, you can simply walk over to the next plant, reposition the tool over the centre of the plant, and start again. I find that once I get going, I can work incredibly quickly using one of these tools—I would recommend it as a great improvement over my mother’s kneel-and-pry method of dandelion removal. It is much easier on the knees and back.
Radiant Heat
One new weed-destroying technique uses brand new technology as well as a very traditional method of getting rid of plant material: fire and/or heat. Tools that use radiant (infrared) heat do not set fire to the plant; instead, they heat up the cells to such a degree that the cells burst and photosynthesis cannot be carried out. Most devices use a mixture of infrared radiation, water, and air. The tool is comprised of a long, hand-held device that can be used while standing; usually a ceramic head is attached to the device, and is held directly over the plant, an inch or two above the ground. The entire process only takes a few seconds per plant, but like many weed-control methods, more than one application may be necessary before the weeds are totally eradicated.
Flame or Steam Systems
Another type of device also uses heat to kill weeds—in this case, a short burst of flame or steam that also attacks cells and stops photosynthesis, leading--a short time later--to the plant’s death. Flame weeders often use propane or liquid paraffin; a short burst of heat is targeted at the plant, while neighbouring crops can be protected by a special attachment to the device and by directing the flame weeder only at the target weeds. These systems are best for smaller, less established weeds, although larger devices also exist for tackling entire lawns. As with any other tools where flammable materials are involved, always use caution when using the device, and never aim the weeder at dry brush or grasses, as these may ignite. Flame weeders are one of the best choices for localized weed problems and they are particularly effective for dandelions or other weeds that have taken root in the cracks of sidewalks, driveways, paved areas, stone walls, and on walkways between garden beds.
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