Roundup Weed Killer Buying Guide

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) has become a high-value crop in recent years due to its role in bioenergy production, forage systems, and conservation planting. However, successful stand establishment and long-term productivity heavily rely on early and effective weed management. Annual grasses like crabgrass, foxtails, and barnyardgrass can severely outcompete young switchgrass seedlings, limiting biomass yields.

Quinclorac, a selective post-emergent herbicide, is widely used in turf and rice systems for its ability to control problematic grassy weeds. Increasingly, it is being evaluated and applied as a targeted herbicide in switchgrass fields to suppress weed pressure during the early growth stages.


What Is Quinclorac and How Does It Work?
Quinclorac is a synthetic auxin herbicide (HRAC Group 4) that mimics plant hormones to disrupt cell elongation and growth. Its mode of action leads to abnormal growth, tissue distortion, and ultimately weed death, particularly in emerged annual grasses and some broadleaf weeds.

Key Features:


Chemical name: 3,7-Dichloro-8-quinolinecarboxylic acid



Formulations: 75% WDG, 20% SC, 25% WP



Weed targets: Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.), foxtail (Setaria spp.), barnyardgrass (Echinochloa spp.), clover, bindweed



Residual activity: Up to several weeks in soil, offering extended suppression



Rainfast: 6–8 hours after application




Is Quinclorac Safe for Switchgrass Fields?
Yes—Quinclorac can be used in switchgrass systems under certain conditions, especially as a post-emergent herbicide targeting grassy weeds without harming established switchgrass stands.

Crop Selectivity:


Switchgrass shows moderate to good tolerance to Quinclorac once it reaches 3+ tillers.



It is not recommended during seedling emergence or early establishment (within 2–4 weeks after seeding).



Registered Uses:


In some regions, Quinclorac is used off-label or under research permit in native grassland restoration and switchgrass biofuel programs.



Always check with local extension offices and label guidance before field application.




When and How to Apply Quinclorac in Switchgrass Fields
Best Timing:


Post-emergent: Apply when switchgrass is established and weeds are at 2–4 leaf stage.



Avoid applications during early emergence or drought stress to minimize crop injury.



Recommended Application Rates:




Formulation
Rate per Acre
Carrier Volume




75% WDG
0.67–1.0 lbs
15–40 GPA (ground)


20% SC
1.5–2.0 pints
10–40 GPA






Always add a methylated seed oil (MSO) or nonionic surfactant (NIS) for improved weed uptake.



Quinclorac is often tank-mixed with broadleaf herbicides (e.g., 2,4-D) for broader spectrum control.




Target Weeds Controlled by Quinclorac in Switchgrass Plantings




Weed Type
Examples
Control Level




Annual grasses
Crabgrass, foxtails, barnyardgrass
Excellent (post-emergent)


Broadleaf weeds
Clover, speedwell, black medic
Partial–Moderate


Perennial grasses
Johnsongrass, brome
Poor–Not labeled





Note: Quinclorac is most effective when used in conjunction with pre-emergent programs and cultural controls (e.g., mowing, timely planting).



Quinclorac vs. Other Herbicides in Switchgrass Systems




Herbicide
Mode of Action
Main Use
Crop Safety




Quinclorac
Synthetic auxin
Post-emergent grass control
Good in established stands


Pendimethalin
Cell division inhibitor
Pre-emergent annual grass
Safe pre-plant or pre-emergence


2,4-D
Synthetic auxin
Broadleaf control
Safe post-emergent in mature stands


Imazapic
ALS inhibitor
Broad-spectrum; some grasses
Selective; may suppress switchgrass at high rates





Practical Use Tips for Growers


Start clean: Control weeds pre-plant with glyphosate or tillage.



Monitor weed stage: Quinclorac is most effective on young, actively growing weeds.



Tank mix wisely: Combining with IGRs or compatible broadleaf herbicides improves spectrum.



Avoid replanting sensitive crops (e.g., legumes) for up to 12 months due to soil residue.



Follow re-entry and harvest intervals as indicated on the product label.




Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use Quinclorac on new switchgrass seedlings?
A: No. Wait until switchgrass is well established (typically 4–6 weeks post-planting) before applying.

Q2: Will Quinclorac control perennial grasses?
A: No. It is effective on annual grassy weeds, not perennials like johnsongrass or brome.

Q3: Can I tank mix Quinclorac with 2,4-D?
A: Yes, in many cases, this is recommended to broaden control spectrum. Always conduct a jar test and read both labels for compatibility.

Q4: Is Quinclorac safe near waterways or sensitive plants?
A: Like most herbicides, avoid drift to non-target species and buffer zones near aquatic areas.


Conclusion: Quinclorac is a Strategic Tool for Grass Weed Control in Switchgrass
When used appropriately, Quinclorac offers a targeted, post-emergent solution for controlling crabgrass and other invasive annual grasses in switchgrass production systems. While it is not a silver bullet, it can protect biomass yield, preserve soil cover, and support stand longevity when integrated into a broader weed management program.


Professional-Grade Quinclorac Solutions for Bulk Buyers
As a leading supplier of post-emergent herbicides, we provide:



Quinclorac 75% WDG / 20% SC / 25% WP



Custom packaging, labeling, and branding services



Regulatory documentation: COA, MSDS, SDS, and export support



Free samples available for product evaluation



We specialize in bulk agrochemical supply for biofuel programs, commercial growers, and distributors. Let us support your switchgrass weed control programs with reliable, field-tested solutions.

Contact us now to request a quote or sample pack.

Why Woody Weed Control Matters
Woody weeds are more than just unsightly plants—they are aggressive, fast-spreading invaders that can seriously degrade pasture productivity, increase fire risk, and compromise land value. For growers, landowners, and pastoral managers, failing to control woody weeds early can result in costly infestations that are difficult and expensive to reverse.

What makes woody weeds particularly challenging is their resilience. These are not soft annuals you can pull by hand—they include hard-stemmed shrubs, vines, and small trees that regenerate from deep roots, woody crowns, or even stem fragments. Once established, they outcompete desirable forage species, restrict livestock access, and often provide cover for wild animals that damage infrastructure or native biodiversity.

In regions with variable rainfall or poor soil structure, woody weeds such as prickly acacia, lantana, blackberry, and willow often dominate the landscape if left unmanaged. Their spread is rapid, and many are now classified as noxious or invasive under national or regional weed control legislation, requiring active management by landowners and local authorities.

From a regulatory, economic, and environmental standpoint, it’s clear that controlling woody weeds is not optional—it’s essential. And among all control measures, herbicide-based strategies remain the most effective and scalable solution, especially when integrated into a planned weed management program.



What Are Woody Weeds?
Woody weeds are a diverse group of shrubs, vines, and small trees that share one common trait: they develop woody stems or branches that make them harder to control than typical broadleaf or grassy weeds. These species may be native or introduced, but in all cases, they have become aggressive competitors in pastures, rangelands, and natural ecosystems.

From a weed management perspective, woody weeds often fall under several formal classifications:



Invasive Species – plants introduced from other regions that spread rapidly and threaten local biodiversity



Noxious Weeds – legally regulated weeds that landowners are required to control



Weeds of National Significance (WoNS) – species ranked by governments for their high impact, such as lantana, bitou bush, and prickly acacia



Environmental Alert List Species – early-stage invaders with the potential to become major threats if left unmanaged



Common woody weeds across pastures and agricultural lands include:



Prickly Acacia (Vachellia nilotica)



Lantana (Lantana camara)



Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus complex)



Willow (Salix spp.)



Bracken Fern, Ragwort, Thistle



These plants are not only tough but persistent. They reproduce through seeds, root suckers, or stem fragments, thrive in both dry and humid climates, and often develop resistance to mechanical removal. Their dense canopies shade out grasses, and their thick stems resist mowing or grazing. Many also have defensive traits like thorns or toxins, which limit livestock access and make physical control hazardous or impractical.

This is precisely why herbicide use becomes a necessity—not just a convenience. Manual or grazing-based approaches are rarely enough to achieve long-term suppression. If you're managing large properties, roadways, or mixed-use areas, your choice of herbicide formulation and application method will determine your success in reclaiming infested land.

How to Identify Woody Weeds on Your Land
Accurate identification is the first step in any successful weed management program. With woody weeds, early detection is especially important—the younger the plant, the more effective herbicide treatment tends to be, and the lower the cost of control.

Woody weeds vary widely in appearance, but they typically share a few defining characteristics:

1. Wood-like Structure
Woody weeds, true to their name, develop rigid stems or branches that do not die back each year. Whether they appear as spreading shrubs, upright saplings, or thorny vines, their hardened structure enables them to persist through drought, fire, or grazing pressure.

2. Perennial Growth Habit
Most woody weeds are perennials—they live for several seasons, and some may take years to reach maturity. During this time, they establish deep root systems or woody crowns that allow regrowth even after slashing or partial removal.

3. Invasive Growth Pattern
Woody weeds often colonize disturbed or overgrazed areas, roadsides, fencelines, or waterways. They tend to grow rapidly and spread outward, forming dense thickets that choke out native grasses and reduce forage accessibility.

4. Reproduction by Seeds and Suckers
Many woody weeds produce high volumes of seed, which are spread by wind, animals, or water. Others propagate vegetatively through suckers, rhizomes, or root fragments, which makes mechanical removal less effective and favors chemical intervention.

5. Visual Indicators to Watch For





Feature
Clue to Woody Weed Presence




Thorny branches
Possible prickly acacia, blackberry, or thistle


Dense, low-growing mass
Indicative of lantana or bitou bush


Vine-like stems
Suggests scrambling woody weeds like wild rose


Unusual leaf texture
Waxy, hairy, or leathery leaves resist wetting




Why Identification Matters for Herbicide Use:Different woody weeds respond to different active ingredients and application methods. For example, glyphosate may control young seedlings via foliar spray but will be far less effective on established multi-stemmed shrubs unless injected or cut-stump treated. On the other hand, tebuthiuron granules are excellent for controlling deep-rooted trees but unsuitable for use near desirable species.



Why You Need to Eliminate Woody Weeds Promptly
Delaying woody weed control not only allows these plants to spread unchecked—it directly reduces the productivity, safety, and value of your land. Whether you manage grazing pastures, cropping zones, or conservation areas, early and decisive intervention with the right herbicides can save years of labor, reduce compliance risks, and protect your agricultural return on investment.

1. Reduced Pasture Productivity
Woody weeds compete aggressively for water, nutrients, and sunlight, displacing valuable pasture species. In heavily infested fields, carrying capacity for livestock can drop significantly—sometimes by more than 50%. Over time, this means:



Lower livestock stocking rates



Uneven grazing patterns and underutilized forage



Soil degradation due to bare ground under dense thickets



By applying systemic or residual herbicides early in the season, you can suppress regrowth and allow pasture grasses to re-establish before the next grazing cycle.


2. Increased Fire Risk
During dry seasons, many woody weeds—especially lantana, prickly acacia, and bracken fern—become highly flammable, creating natural fuel loads. Their thick structure holds heat, spreads flames quickly, and may endanger fencing, sheds, and surrounding vegetation.

Chemical control methods, such as basal bark or tebuthiuron granule applications, are effective in reducing woody biomass before it becomes a fire hazard—without disturbing the soil like mechanical clearing does.


3. Harbor for Pests and Vermin
Woody weed thickets provide ideal shelter for feral pigs, rabbits, and foxes, which pose a threat not only to crops and livestock but also to native wildlife. These areas are also difficult to inspect or manage, increasing labor time for fencing, pest control, and mustering.

Eradicating woody weeds helps remove these pest refuges. Combining brushcutting with cut-stump herbicide treatment or glyphosate injection delivers lasting results even in rugged or remote terrain.


4. Legal and Compliance Obligations
In many regions, landowners are legally required to control noxious or declared weeds. Failure to comply with weed legislation may lead to fines or restrictions on property usage. Regulatory agencies increasingly recognize herbicide-based strategies as the most practical and scalable form of compliance.

If you're distributing crop protection products, this creates a key market opportunity. By offering registered, locally compliant herbicide products with proven woody weed efficacy, you help your clients not only protect their land—but also meet their legal responsibilities.


5. Economic ROI of Early Control
Investing in herbicide-based control at the early stages of infestation can reduce total treatment costs by 40–70% over the long term. Compared to repeated mowing, burning, or slashing—which often cause regrowth—herbicides provide season-spanning residual control, reducing labor and retreatment frequency.

In the next section, we’ll explore the most effective methods available to control woody weeds—and how different herbicide application techniques suit different species and landscapes.

Most Effective Ways to Control Woody Weeds
Woody weeds present a unique challenge—they’re resilient, persistent, and often grow in difficult terrain. While multiple management strategies exist, no single method is universally effective. The most successful control programs are integrated, combining physical, cultural, and chemical approaches. Among these, herbicide-based strategies remain the most reliable, scalable, and cost-effective solution, particularly in agricultural and pastoral settings.


1. Physical and Cultural Methods (Limited Effectiveness Alone)
These methods may provide short-term results or be useful as a supplement to herbicide application:



Slashing or mechanical cutting helps reduce above-ground biomass but often stimulates regrowth from rootstocks or lignotubers.



Grazing by livestock (particularly goats) may suppress seedlings, but established woody weeds are usually avoided.



Burning can clear dense infestations temporarily, but some species—such as lantana—may regenerate vigorously after fire.



Cultivation may damage root systems, but risks spreading weed fragments or disturbing desirable pasture species.



Ultimately, these methods are best used in combination with herbicide treatments, which can target underground structures and prevent regrowth.


2. Herbicide-Based Control: The Most Effective Long-Term Solution
Chemical control offers the most flexible and sustainable approach, especially when tailored to:



Weed species



Plant maturity



Site conditions



Application equipment available



Herbicides can be selective or non-selective, applied to foliage, stems, soil, or stumps, and formulated as liquids, granules, gels, or capsules. When applied at the right time and using the correct technique, herbicides translocate through the plant, killing it from the inside out—something mechanical methods cannot achieve.

At POMAIS, we supply a full range of professional-grade herbicides designed specifically for woody weed control, including:



Systemic foliar sprays for active regrowth



Basal bark and cut-stump treatments for established stems



Soil-applied granules for residual control in grazing land



Encapsulated formulations for stem injection in hard-to-reach areas



We also support our partners with guidance on optimal use timing, tank-mix compatibility, and resistance management, ensuring long-term efficacy across multiple seasons.

Herbicide Application Techniques for Woody Weeds
Choosing the right herbicide is only half the solution—how you apply it plays an equally critical role in achieving successful and lasting woody weed control. Different application methods are suitable for different plant sizes, species, terrain types, and operational scales. At POMAIS, we help you match the most effective technique to your conditions, ensuring optimal uptake and minimal environmental impact.


1. Stem Injection (Including Capsule-Based Systems)
Best for: Large, established trees with hard bark (e.g., prickly acacia, Chinese apple)



Method: Cut horizontal notches into the trunk using an axe or drill. Immediately inject or pour glyphosate-based herbicide into the wound to reach the sap stream.



For enhanced safety and efficiency, use encapsulated herbicides (e.g., glyphosate 700g/kg capsules) with an injection gun system.



Advantage: Minimizes herbicide drift and soil contamination; effective even in sensitive ecosystems.




2. Basal Bark Treatment
Best for: Young trees and saplings (≤5 cm diameter), multi-stemmed shrubs



Method: Mix triclopyr or picloram with a carrier (e.g., diesel) and apply to the lower 30 cm of the trunk, covering the entire circumference.



Use during active growing periods for best results.



Avoid treating wet or fire-charred bark, which impedes penetration.




3. Cut-Stump Application
Best for: Woody weeds that have been freshly cut, particularly in re-clearing operations



Method: Immediately after cutting the plant close to ground level, apply a systemic herbicide (e.g., glyphosate, triclopyr, aminopyralid) directly to the exposed surface.



Prevents suckering or regrowth from the stump.



Effective when mechanical removal is necessary but long-term suppression is still required.




4. Foliar Spraying (High-Volume Hand Spray)
Best for: Actively growing leafy woody weeds such as lantana or blackberry



Method: Use a hand sprayer or knapsack to fully coat the leaf surface to the point of runoff.



Add a premium penetrant or surfactant for waxy or hairy leaves.



Works best when plants are not drought-stressed and foliage is lush.




5. Boom Spraying
Best for: Broadacre application in pastures or open fields with uniform weed distribution



Method: Use fan-nozzle boom sprayers with overlapping coverage and even pressure control.



Target seedling-stage infestations or emerging regrowth before stem lignification.




6. Granular or Pelletized Application
Best for: Long-term suppression of deep-rooted or regrowing woody weeds in grazing zones



Method: Apply tebuthiuron or metsulfuron granules by hand, spreader, or aerial equipment.



Once rainfall activates the pellet, herbicide moves into the root zone and is absorbed systemically.



Advantage: Residual effect persists for 1–3 seasons; minimal labor once applied.




7. Herbicide Gel Application
Best for: Environmentally sensitive areas (e.g., national parks, urban buffer zones)



Method: Apply gel herbicide (e.g., aminopyralid-based) directly to freshly cut stumps.



Offers a non-spray alternative, ideal for use around water sources or native vegetation.






Choosing the Right Herbicide: What Works Best
Woody weeds vary widely in their structure, growth cycle, and resistance to environmental stress—so no single herbicide fits all scenarios. Your choice of active ingredient should reflect not only the target species but also the application method, site conditions, and whether residual control is needed.

At POMAIS, we offer a full range of high-performance active ingredients, each designed to match specific field realities. Below is a breakdown of the most effective compounds used in woody weed management.


1. Glyphosate
Mode of Action: Non-selective, systemicUse In:



Stem injection



Cut-stump application



High-volume foliar spray (with caution)



Strengths:



Kills entire plant, including roots and suckers



Suitable for capsule injection and targeted treatments



Rapid translocation and cost-effective



Considerations:



Non-selective: will kill all green vegetation



Use with care around desirable species or grasses




2. Triclopyr + Picloram
Mode of Action: Selective, systemic broadleaf and woody plant controlUse In:



Basal bark treatments



Cut-stump application



Foliar spraying (with surfactant)



Strengths:



Excellent on brush-type woody weeds (e.g., lantana, blackberry)



Persistent control with minimal regrowth



Safe on most grasses



Considerations:



Soil activity—avoid near water bodies or sensitive zones



May require repeat treatment on older infestations




3. Aminopyralid
Mode of Action: Systemic growth regulatorUse In:



Gel formulations



Combination mixes for extended activity



Booster additive (“spike”) with other herbicides



Strengths:



Powerful effect on hard-to-kill broadleaf and woody weeds



Safe for use in pasture renovation



Very low use rate with high biological activity



Considerations:



Not registered for all crop systems



Avoid use near sensitive legume crops




4. Tebuthiuron
Mode of Action: Soil-active residual herbicideUse In:



Pellet or granular broadcast



Aerial application for inaccessible or remote areas



Strengths:



Long residual control (up to 3 years)



Ideal for broadscale brush control in grazing zones



Rain-activated for timed release



Considerations:



Non-selective: suppresses all root-zone vegetation



Application should avoid dripline of desirable trees




5. Metsulfuron-Methyl
Mode of Action: Sulfonylurea herbicide that inhibits cell divisionUse In:



Foliar spray or granular broadcast



Additive to other herbicides for synergistic effect



Strengths:



Very low application rate



Controls over 40 species of woody and broadleaf weeds



Compatible with tank mixes for enhanced performance



Considerations:



Requires good uptake conditions—add penetrants for waxy foliage



Some species may require repeated application






POMAIS Solutions for Woody Weed Control
At POMAIS, we understand that successful woody weed control requires more than just a chemical—it demands a fit-for-purpose formulation, practical delivery options, and the confidence that your supplier will stand behind both product and performance. That’s why we offer a complete portfolio of herbicide solutions developed specifically for woody and brush-type weeds across agricultural, rangeland, and conservation environments.


Our Core Herbicide Solutions Include:



Active Ingredient
Formulation Types
Recommended Applications




Glyphosate
SL, Injection Capsule
Stem injection, cut stump, foliar spray


Triclopyr + Picloram
EC, Gel
Basal bark, cut stump, foliar on brush


Tebuthiuron
GR (Pellet, Granule)
Broadcast soil application in pastures


Metsulfuron-Methyl
WP, GR
Foliar spray, boom spray, tank-mix additive


Aminopyralid
Gel, EC blend
Sensitive-area control, systemic combination formulas



Each formulation is designed with field stability, effective absorption, and ease of use in mind—whether you are clearing small plots or deploying across thousands of hectares.


OEM & Private Label Services
If you’re a distributor or brand owner looking to expand your woody weed product line, POMAIS provides full OEM support:



Label design and language localization



Custom bottle sizes (100 mL – 20 L)



Bulk drum supply for repackaging



Regulatory registration assistance for your country



Export-ready documentation: MSDS, COA, TDS



Our flexible production capacity and formulation expertise allow us to tailor solutions to your market requirements, positioning you competitively in both cost and efficacy.


Partner-Oriented Supply Chain
We serve wholesale and institutional buyers across:



Middle East



South America



Africa



Central Asia



Russia and CIS markets



With proven reliability in container shipments, seasonal planning, and third-party testing compliance, we ensure your supply remains uninterrupted—even in peak periods.


Technical & Field Support
Beyond formulation, we offer:



Product application training



Active ingredient selection by target species



Spray schedule development



Resistance management consultation



Our goal is to help you not only sell products—but build long-term customer satisfaction through real, repeatable results.

Start Your Woody Weed Control Strategy Today
If you are facing persistent brush, thickets, or invasive trees on your land—or your customers are requesting effective woody weed solutions—now is the time to act. Delaying treatment allows these aggressive species to deepen their roots, expand their seedbanks, and drive up the cost of recovery.

At POMAIS Agriculture, we offer more than just herbicides. We provide:



A full technical solution tailored to your crop, pasture, or conservation zone



OEM and private label options for distributors building their brand portfolio



Professional-grade formulations developed for woody weeds that resist physical and shallow chemical treatments



Compliance-ready support: MSDS, COA, product registration files, and labeling in multiple languages



Flexible logistics with container loading and mixed-product export across continents



Whether you're managing pastureland overrun with prickly acacia, treating lantana in bushland corridors, or building a nationwide product offering—POMAIS gives you the chemical precision and commercial reliability you need.

Reach out to our expert team today to discuss:



Sample requests for trial plots



Pricing and lead times for bulk or private label orders



Formulation selection for local weed species



Strategic supply planning for the upcoming season



Let’s build your woody weed control program on a foundation of proven efficacy and trusted partnership.

Capeweed (Arctotheca calendula) is a fast-spreading annual broadleaf weed that poses a serious threat to pastures, cropping systems, and animal health across Australia and similar climates. Recognised by its distinct yellow daisy-like flowers and low-growing rosette, capeweed competes aggressively with pasture species, reduces forage availability, and in some conditions, becomes toxic due to nitrate accumulation.

If you're a distributor, agronomist, or livestock producer, understanding how to identify and control capeweed is vital to ensuring pasture productivity and safeguarding livestock health. At POMAIS, we support clients across agricultural sectors with registered herbicide formulations, expert guidance, and scalable solutions for weed control. This guide outlines practical strategies to help you manage capeweed effectively and professionally.


Weed Profile: What Makes Capeweed a Problem?
Capeweed is a winter-growing annual that germinates in autumn and dominates in spring if left unchecked. Key characteristics include:



Flat rosette with soft, lobed, hairy leaves



Bright yellow flowers with black centres



Shallow fibrous root system



Prolific seed production, capable of forming dense mats



Capeweed prefers disturbed soils, overgrazed pastures, and areas with low ground cover. In addition to reducing the palatability of forage, it accumulates nitrates and oxalates under certain soil and climate conditions, posing risks of poisoning to grazing animals such as sheep, cattle, and horses.


Best Practices for Capeweed Control
1. Early Identification and Timing
Capeweed control is most effective when applied at the seedling to rosette stage, typically from autumn to early winter. Once flowering begins, chemical control becomes less effective, and seed bank replenishment becomes likely.

2. Cultural and Grazing Management


Maintain competitive pasture species (e.g., ryegrass, clover) through appropriate fertilisation and reseeding.



Avoid overgrazing, which creates bare patches and allows capeweed to establish.



Use rotational grazing to maintain sward density and improve weed suppression.



3. Herbicide Control: Selective Chemical Solutions
The following active ingredients are commonly recommended for capeweed control in pastures and cropping systems:




Application Stage
Active Ingredient(s)
Formulation Type
Notes


Early post-emergent
MCPA
Amine/ester (EC/SL)
Selective for broadleaf weeds, safe for grasses


Post-emergent
Bromoxynil
EC or SC
Contact herbicide, ideal for younger weeds


Broader spectrum
MCPA + Bromoxynil
Mix formulation
Synergistic activity for heavy infestations


Cereal crops
Diflufenican
SC
Provides residual control, often mixed with MCPA


Non-crop/renovation
Glyphosate
SL
For knockdown prior to reseeding



Always follow product labels and rotate actives where possible to prevent herbicide resistance.

4. Integrated Control Programs
For high-pressure infestations or regions with long capeweed histories, integrate:



Pre-emergent herbicides in cropping rotations



Mechanical mowing/slashing prior to flowering



Reseeding programs post-suppression to restore desirable cover




Safety and Livestock Considerations
Capeweed toxicity increases under:



High nitrogen fertilisation



Stressful growing conditions (drought or frost)



Heavy grazing of young plants in early spring



Animals may exhibit symptoms of nitrate poisoning such as weakness, labored breathing, or sudden death. If pastures are dominated by capeweed, restrict grazing and consult a veterinarian.


Why Work with POMAIS for Capeweed Herbicide Supply?
POMAIS offers:



Registered active ingredient formulations including MCPA, Bromoxynil, and Glyphosate



Support for OEM/private label products



Expert recommendations based on local pasture conditions



Documentation for MSDS, COA, and compliance



Our herbicides are available in EC, SL, and SC formulations in bulk packs for farm supply stores, cooperatives, and export clients. We ship across South America, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East.


Conclusion: Start Capeweed Control Early for Best Results
Capeweed control isn’t a one-time solution. It requires early intervention, strategic herbicide use, and consistent pasture management. Whether you are advising clients, managing a supply channel, or treating your own paddocks, proactive action is key to reducing capeweed infestations.

For custom herbicide solutions, technical support, or product samples, contact POMAIS Agriculture today.

Weed pressure in onion and garlic cultivation presents a significant challenge to commercial growers. These crops have shallow root systems and slow initial growth, making them highly susceptible to competition from both broadleaf and grass weeds. Integrated weed management (IWM) is critical to preserve yield, maintain crop quality, and reduce long-term herbicide resistance risks.

This article outlines the major weed threats in onion and garlic fields, introduces IWM strategies, and highlights herbicide types and active ingredients with proven efficacy, targeting agricultural professionals and pesticide procurement experts.


Common Weeds in Onion and Garlic Fields
Based on UC IPM classification and regional observations, the most problematic weeds include:



Annual Broadleaves: Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album), Purslane (Portulaca oleracea), Pigweed (Amaranthus spp.)



Perennial Broadleaves: Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)



Grasses: Barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli), Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.), Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense)



Sedges: Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus), Purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus)



These species compete aggressively for water, nutrients, and sunlight, often resulting in stunted bulb development and reduced marketable yields.


Key Challenges in Weed Control for Allium Crops


Slow Canopy ClosureOnions and garlic are slow to shade the ground, allowing weeds to establish early.



Shallow Root SystemsThey are easily outcompeted for moisture and nutrients, especially during early growth stages.



Limited Post-Emergence OptionsMany herbicides risk crop phytotoxicity, especially on young seedlings.



Herbicide ResistanceRepetitive use of a single mode of action increases the risk of resistant weed populations, especially among grasses.




Integrated Weed Management (IWM) Strategies
IWM in onion and garlic relies on a combination of cultural, mechanical, and chemical approaches:

1. Pre-Plant Weed Reduction


Soil solarization or stale seedbed techniques (flushing and killing early weed flushes before planting)



Tillage to disrupt weed seedbanks



2. Pre-Emergence Herbicide Application
Apply soil-active herbicides before weed emergence. Common effective active ingredients include:



Pendimethalin (Group 3): Controls many annual grasses and small-seeded broadleaves.



DCPA (Dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate): Offers good residual activity against broadleaf weeds.



3. Post-Emergence Herbicide Application
Selective herbicides may be used depending on crop stage and weed type. Effective actives include:



Oxyfluorfen (Group 14): Contact herbicide for young broadleaves; use with care to avoid foliar injury.



Fluazifop-p-butyl / Clethodim (Group 1): Target grassy weeds post-emergence without damaging Allium crops.



Halosulfuron-methyl (Group 2): Effective against yellow nutsedge in tolerant crops.



4. Mechanical Weeding and Crop Rotation


Inter-row cultivation remains a key tool for early-season control.



Rotating with non-host crops reduces perennial weed pressure and herbicide dependency.




Special Weed Problems and Considerations


Yellow Nutsedge: Very difficult to manage; requires repeated application of sulfonylurea or ALS-inhibitor herbicides.



Dodder (Cuscuta spp.): Parasitic weed with no true roots or leaves; requires a combination of pre-emergence control and field sanitation.




Herbicide Mode-of-Action Rotation: Resistance Prevention
To prevent herbicide resistance:



Avoid repeated use of the same MOA group in a single season.



Rotate between groups: e.g., Group 3 (pendimethalin) → Group 14 (oxyfluorfen) → Group 1 (clethodim).



Use full labeled rates and appropriate timing for maximum efficacy.




Conclusion and Product Guidance
Effective weed control in onion and garlic production requires careful weed identification, timely action, and correct herbicide application. Prioritize active ingredients known for high efficacy and safety on Allium crops. Always consider label restrictions, PHI (Pre-Harvest Interval), and REI (Re-entry Interval).

For bulk supply of herbicides containing pendimethalin, oxyfluorfen, fluazifop-p-butyl, or halosulfuron, contact our technical sales team to get tailored solutions for your field conditions.