PFI Flame Cultivation Research in Corn – Effectiveness and Cost

Published Feb 11, 2008

Summary

Flame cultivation can be effective in killing weeds, including those growing in the crop row. Any positive effect on crop yields is through reduction of weed competition only. The cost per acre of flame cultivation is two-to-three times greater than rotary hoeing, as is the time involved. In wet conditions, when the hoe and harrow are relatively ineffective, flame cultivation is probably the best non-chemical weed control option for corn.