Organic Matter

Glyphosate belongs to the phosphonomethyl amino acid class and is a non-selective systemic herbicide. This means it can affect almost any type of terrestrial plant it comes into contact with.

The primary mode of action is the inhibition of the synthesis of essential aromatic amino acids. Glyphosate targets and inhibits the enzyme 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) in the shikimate pathway.

The substance is absorbed through leaves and other green plant parts, then rapidly translocated via the phloem to all growing points, including roots, rhizomes, and stolons.

Blocking protein synthesis causes plant growth to stop within a few hours. This is followed by chlorosis, wilting, and eventually the total death of the plant.

Complete necrosis of the aerial parts and root system typically occurs within 10 to 20 days, depending on environmental conditions and weed species sensitivity.

Glyphosate-based products are widely used for the control of a broad spectrum of annual and perennial grasses, as well as broad-leaved weeds.

It is particularly effective against aggressive perennial weeds with extensive root systems, such as couch grass (Elymus repens), creeping thistle, and bindweed.

In agriculture, it is used for pre-planting field preparation, desiccation of grain crops, and clearing fallow fields of unwanted vegetation.

It is also actively used in non-agricultural settings, including forestry, along roadsides, railway tracks, and around industrial facilities.

The use of glyphosate significantly reduces the weed seed bank in the soil and simplifies weed management for future crop cultivation.

Application rates for glyphosate range from 2 to 8 liters per hectare, depending on the concentration of the active ingredient and the target weed species composition.

Lower rates are usually sufficient for annual weeds, while maximum rates are required to effectively control tough, deep-rooted perennial plants.

Optimal timing depends on the weed growth stage: active growth for annuals, or the rosette/early flowering stage for perennials.

The effectiveness of the product is highly dependent on weather conditions, with warm days and moderate soil moisture providing the best results.

It is crucial to avoid application during expected rainfall or high winds to prevent product wash-off and drift onto adjacent crop fields.

Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide, meaning it will kill or severely damage any cultural crops it comes into direct contact with during spraying.

The active ingredient binds strongly to soil particles, which essentially prevents it from leaching into groundwater or being absorbed by crop roots after application.

When handling glyphosate, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles, gloves, respirators, and protective clothing is mandatory.

Strict adherence to re-entry intervals is necessary, ensuring that fields are only accessed for work after the required waiting period has passed.

Products must be stored in their original containers, in cool, dry areas away from children, pets, and potential sources of ignition.