Glyphosate

About Glyphosate

Glyphosate inhibits certain amino acids necessary for protein formation in plants. It is formed as an isopropylamine salt. Its popularity stems from the low toxicity and that the product breaks down quickly and does not persist in the soil. However, glyphosate can build up in plant tissues, leading to harm and death of plants, which is a problem for non-target trees and shrubs. In annual plants, you will see results in two to four days, and with perennials you will see results in seven to 10 days.

 It is currently the most heavily broadcasted herbicide in the US, with 5 to 8 million pounds being used every year on lawns and yards and 85 to 90 million pounds used for agricultural purposes.

Glyphosate Application Conditions

Since glyphosate herbicides are non-selective, you will have to take care when applying products with glyphosate. It does not persist in the soil, so it must be applied to actively growing plants. 

• Apply when temperatures exceed 60 degrees and plants are actively growing.
• Early mornings and late evenings are ideal.
• Wait for a calm day; if glyphosate spray drifts onto desired plants, they can be damaged or killed. Take care to avoid drift by waiting for calm days or putting up shields. 
• If spray does get on desired plants, wash off with water immediately.

How Does Glyphosate work? 

Glyphosate can be sprayed over plants or crops and absorbed through the leaves, injected into the trunks or stumps of trees, or broadcast. The chemical’s mode of action is to inhibit the enzymes involved in amino acid synthesis, resulting in death of the affected plants.

How to Use Glyphosate

Spray target plants until the leaves are wet but not dripping. Do not walk on the wet areas as you may track the glyphosate around and damage grasses and other non-target plants. Although this product has low toxicity, always read labels, instructions, and warnings for use, safety, and storage. 

Toxicity

The Environmental Protection Agency‎ had declared glyphosate to be relatively low in toxicity, and without carcinogenic or teratogenic effects. They have even gone so far as to say that an individual eating only food from glyphosate treated fields for a lifetime would suffer no adverse effects.  However, there can easily be found arguments from many who disagree.  To ensure safety, please always read and follow the product label directions.