How do I know that the HotZot can kill my weeds?
Weeds can range from Canadian thistle through cockelburrs, goatheads, mullen and thousands of other unwanted plants. How can I make sure that the HotZot will be able to kill my weeds? The answer is easy – boil some water, put it in an insulated cup and then go outside and pour 1/4 cup on the crown of your weed of choice then come back over the next few days and watch the weed die. Occasionally an unusually robust, mature weed will require a 2nd application.
Note – Weeds such as blackberries, ivy, morning glory (field bindweed), etc. propagate by runners. Killing a single runner will have no effect on weeds such as these.
How does it work?
The HotZot works by shooting narrow jets of scalding 185F water at the crown of the weed. It is not necessary to spray all the leaves, just spray the crown of the plant.
The water bursts the tissues of the plant down into the root and with a “kill zone” the size of a dime, the HotZot can be used in lawns and gardens to kill weeds that are directly adjacent to other plants.
Why is citric acid necessary?
Adding citric acid occasionally is necessary to keep the HotZot working at peak efficiency by dissolving the mineral “scale” left behind when water is heated.
How much will it cost?
Initially we expect the HotZot to retail for $150 plus shipping.
Is it safe for kids and pets?
The HotZot is as safe as hot lemonade. While you must use the same precautions that you would with any hot liquid, the Garden HotZot will leave no toxic residue in your yard or clothes and children and pets can play in your yard immediately after treatment.
When will it be available?
We expect to have limited production runs starting in early 2020. Sign up for our newsletter and you will be notified when the HotZot is available.
Where can I buy it?
Initially sales will be conducted through our website HotZot.biz – future sales will include garden and hardware stores.
How effective is it?
100% effective on small to medium sized weeds. The dandelion shown in the images on HotZot.biz took about 30 seconds to kill and you can see where the root died leaving the channel. It is easy to kill up to 150 or more weeds per hour without breaking a sweat.
What limitations does it have?
Some weeds have a distributed root system – think of ivy, morning glory (field bindweed) and blackberries. If you have problem with these kind of weeds, consider using goats to clear the area and then the HotZot as the weeds attempt to recover.
Can I use it to kill slugs and snails?
Yes
Does it work on moss?
Yes.
How does it compare with other powered weeders?
Torches have a “kill zone” about the size of a dinner plate and can do serious damage to plants up to 2 feet away. Torches also release CO2 and must be used very carefully to avoid causing fires in dry mulch, grasses, wood chips, etc.
**See our comparison to other weeders