Herbicides for Plant Control

Types

• The University of Rhode Island Extension lists glyphosate and triclopyr as among the most commonly used plant control herbicides. Both chemicals are sold under different trade names.

Description

• Products containing glyphosate are broad-spectrum herbicides that are absorbed by the foliage and distributed throughout the plant. It takes up to two weeks for plants treated with glyphosate to die entirely. Proper use of glyphosate presents low risk to environment and human health.

  Triclopyr is also a systemic herbicide and works by retarding plant cell division. The herbicide has a faster rate of action than glyphosate.

Targeted Plants

• Glyphosate effectively controls nearly all types of herbaceous and majority of woody plants, including grasses and sedges. The chemical shows better efficacy on woody plants during summer and fall. It is also effective on floating or emergent aquatic plants.

  Triclopyr is effective for a variety of woody and herbaceous plants. The chemical does not control sedges and grasses at regular application rate. It is especially good for brush control and prevention of stump regrowth.