Glyphosate-Based Herbicides

Targeted Weeds

• Classified as systemic, broad-spectrum herbicides, products containing glyphosate effectively control many perennial and annual plants, including sedges, grasses, woody plants and broad-leaved weeds. The herbicide is often formulated in combination with other herbicides.

Ecological Effects

• Glyphosate rarely moves lower than 6 inches of soil surface and soil microbes cause it to degrade rapidly to carbon dioxide. Not as readily degraded in water, it is best to minimize soil runoff to water bodies. The chemical is slightly toxic to birds and even less to honeybees, aquatic invertebrates and fish.

Other Uses

• Certain plant growth regulator products used on sugarcane and peanuts also contain glyphosate as an active ingredient. Plant growth regulators modify plant growth and help with fruit ripening. Glyphosate plant growth regulators are typically in the form of a ground spray for peanuts and an aerial spray on sugarcane.