Alfalfa Hay Field Flaming
Alfalfa Flaming Kills Weeds, Grasses and Weevil the safe, natural way while increasing yields of weed free hay and saving you money over other methods of weed and weevil control.
Also effectively treats field dodder.
Red Dragon Alfalfa Flamers offer producers a single solution for what is usually a two part problem.
One flame application replaces insecticide treatment for weevil and replaces herbicide treatment for unwanted weeds and grasses.
Due to the fact that weevil lay eggs all winter, flaming is normally done in late winter or early spring, just before or during greenup. Flaming usually takes between 20 and 30 gallons of propane per acre, depending on the outside temperature when flaming. A second application may be done, if necessary, immediately following the first cutting. This will not hurt the alfalfa but may delay the second cutting by a few days.
Flame Engineering’s Patented liquid propane spray process was developed in the 1960’s and still works today. By directing the spray at ground level, all plants and insects are subjected to high temperature thus burning out old growth, making way for new growth while eliminating weevils. It takes just a split second to kill weeds, grasses and insects. Tall stubble will, however, require slower ground speeds and higher fuel pressures.
Red Dragon Alfalfa Flamers are Safe and Easy to Use. Flamers are designed to skid behind the tank cart (tank and cart are not included) and come with either electronic solenoid or pull valve allowing the operator control of the liquid spray from the drivers seat. Each unit flames a 12′ swath – to connect two or more, call for advisement on pressures, ground speeds and capabilities.
The Red Dragon Alfalfa Flamer is Lightweight, Durable, Easy to Assemble
and Burns Clean Efficient Propane.
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT LP TANKS:
Always consult your propane dealer about purchasing the proper tank or have them check your existing tank to make sure it is clean and safe before you begin flaming. You MUST use a propane tank equipped with a Liquid Withdrawal Valve. Do NOT use a bottom withdrawal valve as any possible debris or scale may plug torches or solenoids down the line. We recommend a top-mounted, liquid withdrawal valve with a dip tube which reaches close to, but does not rest on the bottom of the tank. Clean fuel and tank are critical for optimum performance of all flaming equipment.
Liquid Spray In Action!
You can clearly see where the flame application ended on this test plot. The flamed plot was thick, healthy and free of wild mustard.
The sample to the left came from an unflamed patch. The sample on the right came from a flamed field.TD-12 LPS ALFALFA FLAMING UNITS INCLUDE:
• Complete control head assembly with either electronic solenoid valve or manual pull valve.
• Cab control box with master shut-off switch (solenoid units).
• (2) LT 3-12 T Liquid Pilot Torches
• All necessary hoses cut to length with brass fittings.
Alfalfa Flaming FAQs
Question: What is the average fuel consumption and cost per acre?
Answer: You can expect to use between 20 and 30 gallons an acre. The cost per acre depends on the price of propane.
Question: When is the best time to flame alfalfa?
Answer: The best time to flame is in the late winter or early spring, when you see the first signs of growth in your alfalfa.
Question: Will flaming hurt my alfalfa?
Answer: No. If the alfalfa is green, it will only slow growth for a few days, but there will be no adverse effects.
Question: Can I flame between cuttings?
Answer: You may flame between cuttings if necessary. Typically, this will delay the next cutting by 3-5 days.
Question: What size tank is recommended?
Answer: No specific tank size is needed. The tank size is determined by how long you want to operate between refills. Using 500 to 1000 gallon tanks is common.
Question: Can more than one unit be hooked together to cover a wider swath?
Answer: Yes. 2 or 3 TD12LPS units can be connected to make a 24′ or 36′ set-up. The producer is responsible for the additional plumbing and fabricating to make this possible.
Question: How fast can I travel while flaming?
Answer: Ground speed around 5 miles per hour is recommended. Speed will vary depending on the air temperature. Higher temperatures allow faster speeds while lower temperatures require slower speeds.
Click here to see the Flame Engineering Agricultural Flaming Guide
Made in the U.S.A.