Sales of a 6 metre wide burner have increased dramatically – as both organic and conventional farmers across the country start to reap the benefits of the state-of-the-art equipment.
The 6m burner, powered by Calor, was launched by Richard Western last year and there has been a steady increase in sales as farmers have been spreading the word about the huge advantages of using the LPG burner.
Now there is almost a dozen farming businesses, from Inverness to Truro, which use fully operational burners. An increasing number of conventional growers are opting to use the 6m burner as opposed to the traditional spraying methods.
Problems with chemicals such as having to notify residents of intent to spray and the closure of footpaths do not arise with the LPG burner.
The 6m burner can be used in any weather, next to residential properties, water courses and rights of way – making it the more convenient and environmentally friendly option for farmers.
The burner can cover up to 24 hectares per eight hour day – making it much faster than the traditional 2m burner.
Richard Western's UK representative, Richard Pearson, said the burners had been very popular with organic growers but they were now becoming an option for conventional growers because of the speed and efficiency of the 6m machine.
He said: "The 6m burner has been very successful since its launch last year and we are expecting sales to double over winter.
"Farmers are now recognising the benefits of using the Calor-powered burners rather than using chemicals," he added.
The 6m burners are used by vegetable, herb, salad, bulb and potato growers.
Pre and post emergence weed control, desiccation and debris destruction can all be controlled with the 6m burner.
It also has the added advantage that it is able to control any weed seeds or resting disease spores such as potato blight.
Calor LPG can be used to heat buildings, power ATV's and road vehicles, dry crops, control weeds and set potatoes.
