Glyphosate is a widely used non-selective herbicide, mainly for land reclamation and weed control in orchards. It has a relatively low cost and broad-spectrum weed-killing ability, making it a favorite among many farmers. Here we discuss the methods for using glyphosate herbicide and the precautions to take.
Glyphosate Herbicide: Usage Methods and Precautions
I. Usage Methods
1. Using Glyphosate in Orchards and Mulberry Gardens
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Application: For controlling perennial weeds, use 1-1.5 kg of 10% glyphosate solution per mu (approx. 0.067 hectares) mixed with 20-30 kg of water. Apply as a directed spray to the stems and leaves of weeds.
2. Weed Control on Fallow Land, Field Edges, and Roadsides
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Timing: Apply during the 4-6 leaf stage of the weeds.
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Application: Use 0.5-1 kg of 10% glyphosate solution per mu, adding 100 ml of diesel oil and mixing with 20-30 kg of water. Spray the mixture.
3. Controlling Annual Grasses
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Application: Use 500-700 ml of 10% glyphosate solution mixed with 30-40 kg of water per mu. Spray to control annual grasses.
4. Controlling Annual Broadleaf Weeds
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Application: Use 750-1000 ml of 10% glyphosate solution mixed with 30-40 kg of water per mu. For perennial malignant weeds, use 1250-1500 ml of 10% glyphosate solution mixed with 30-40 kg of water per mu. Spray to control the weeds.
II. Precautions
1. Reapplication for Perennial Malignant Weeds
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Example: For nutgrass and cogongrass, a second application is usually required one month after the first treatment.
2. Timing and Weather Considerations
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Rain: If it rains within 4-6 hours after spraying, reapply glyphosate. It's best to apply the herbicide on sunny days.
3. Avoiding Crop Damage
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Precaution: Prevent the herbicide from contaminating crops and avoid spray drift to non-target plants to prevent damage.
4. Water Quality for Dilution
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Recommendation: Use clean, soft water for diluting glyphosate. Using dirty or muddy water can reduce its effectiveness.
5. Storage and Handling
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Container: Due to its acidity, store and handle glyphosate in plastic containers. Thoroughly clean spraying equipment after use.
6. Post-Application Restrictions
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Restriction: Avoid plowing, grazing, or cutting grass within three days after application.
7. Handling Damaged Packaging
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Precaution: If the packaging is damaged and exposed to low temperatures and high humidity, crystallization or clumping may occur. Dissolve the crystals thoroughly and shake the container well before use to ensure efficacy.
In summary, glyphosate is a non-selective, non-residual herbicide that is highly effective against perennial weeds. Its effects can last for about seven days. Follow these usage methods and precautions for optimal results.
