RootWave
have developed a unique system for the spot control of a range of weeds using
electricity to ‘boil’ weeds inside out from the root upwards.
Generating
heat directly within the weed ensures than no energy is wasted and the complete
plant including the roots are also controlled.
The weeds
are controlled by electricity, in effect boiling the water in plant cells and
thus killing the plant. This method of thermal control has the benefit that the
heat is generated internally and is therefore much more energy efficient than
using hot water, steam or foam.
Using the
specially designed system, which includes control unit, transfer/earth cables
plus lance and electrodes, weeds can be safely and specifically spot-treated.
The unit
is powered from a standard 8.75kva generator and, due to the very efficient use
of energy, a single tank of fuel can run the RootWave Pro for a day.
Rigby Taylor has been working with RootWave for the past 3 years during the
development cycle.
The
system can be introduced to a new user following stewardship training. Ideally
suited to be used in windy conditions as it has the potential for more working
hours than other techniques.
Rigby
Taylor has identified this system as part of an integrated approach to
vegetation management.
