Why Did People Use Smudge Pots?

Smudge pots protected citrus orchards from frost.

The smudge pot was an apparatus that produced heat, light, and smoke in citrus orchards, highways, and airports. Its use in orchards ceased in the 1970s because of rising oil costs and concern about pollution. Its use in airports and highways gradually ceased, but a modified version is still used in gardens.

Protection Against Frost

To protect their citrus trees from frost, farmers in southern California put smudge pots in strategic locations throughout their orchards. When lighted, smudge pots emitted a dense canopy of smoke, which farmers thought would shield the trees from frost. These smudge pots were usually tall cylinders with an enlarged space for crude oil at their base.

Insect Repellent

Smaller smudge pots adorn family gardens and patios. Besides providing illumination at night, they repel insects. These smudge pots burn cleanly when compared with the orchard smudge pots.

Warning for Motorists

Kerosene-burning smudge pots in the form of a flattened sphere warned motorists to exercise caution. For example, if an accident or vehicle breakdown occurred, smudge pots were set out as a warning.

Guidance for Airplanes

In emergency situations such as power failure, smudge pots illuminated air fields. In World War II and the Korean War, smudge pots were regularly used to illuminate makeshift landing areas, according to Public Resource.

References

• Encyclopaedia Britannica: Smudge Pots
• Fabulous Savings: Garden Pest Control
• South Coast Air Quality Management District: Orchard Smudge Pots Cooked Up Pall of Smog
• Public Resource: 423 F.2d 316 Samuel L. Palmer and Standard Parts ...
• EarthLink