Glyphosate

Glyphosate belongs to the organophosphorus chemical class and acts as a non-selective systemic herbicide. It enters the plant through green tissues, rapidly translocating via the xylem and phloem to all plant parts, including the root system.

The mechanism of action involves blocking the synthesis of essential aromatic amino acids—phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan—by inhibiting the 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) enzyme.

As a result of this protein biosynthesis disruption, weed growth ceases within hours of application. Initial visual symptoms, such as chlorosis and wilting, typically manifest within 3-7 days.

Complete plant mortality occurs within 14-21 days, depending on environmental conditions and weed species. The substance possesses no residual soil activity, allowing for seeding shortly after the weeds have died.

The group comprises various glyphosate derivatives, including isopropylamine, potassium, and ammonium salts, which differ in concentration and plant uptake speed.

Glyphosate effectively eliminates a wide range of annual and perennial grasses, as well as broadleaf weeds. It serves as a primary tool for controlling stubborn rhizomatous and creeping perennial species.

Highly susceptible targets include quackgrass, sow thistle, Canada thistle, field bindweed, and johnsongrass. The herbicide is also active against woody plants on non-agricultural lands.

It is widely used for seedbed preparation, fallow land management, and weed control in orchards, vineyards, and industrial, non-cropland areas.

It is a key component in no-till and minimum-tillage farming systems to destroy cover crops and vegetation before sowing the main crop.

• Annual grass weeds
• Perennial rhizomatous species
• Broadleaf weeds
• Woody vegetation

Application rates depend on weed sensitivity, growth stage, and the concentration of the active ingredient. Typical dosages range from 2 to 6 liters of product per hectare.

Maximum rates are applied when targeting perennial weeds during active growth, as this ensures maximum translocation of the herbicide into the roots. The optimal stage is the rosette phase or when grasses are 10-20 cm tall.

Crucial conditions for effectiveness include clean foliage (free of dust or soil) and optimal ambient temperatures ranging from +12°C to +25°C for maximum metabolic activity.

When used in tank mixes, consider compatibility with additives like ammonium sulfate, which can enhance efficiency in hard water conditions.

Recommended spray volumes vary between 100-200 liters per hectare. Operators must prevent spray drift onto sensitive non-target crops.

Operators must prevent spray contact with non-target crops to avoid lethal damage. The only exceptions are genetically modified crops specifically engineered to be glyphosate-tolerant.

Mechanical soil cultivation should be avoided for at least 5-7 days after application to ensure the systemic herbicide has sufficient time to reach the root system.

Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, gloves, and protective clothing. While glyphosate is generally low-toxicity to mammals, it is an irritant to mucous membranes.

Avoid application during high winds or extreme heat (above +30°C), as these factors reduce uptake efficacy and significantly increase the risk of herbicide drift.

Store in a dry, cool warehouse protected from direct sunlight, at temperatures between -5°C and +30°C, in tightly closed, original containers.