Glyphosate Herbicide: Characteristics, Uses and Precautions

Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum, non-selective herbicide with systemic translocation activity. After the spray solution is absorbed by plant stems and leaves, it can be translocated to the underground root system, interfering with the normal metabolism within the weeds and causing them to wither and die down to the roots. It gives good control of most monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous weeds, and is commonly used for pre-sowing weed control in no-till fields, between rows in orchards, and on non-cultivated land such as field edges and ditch banks. The main characteristics of glyphosate are its broad herbicidal spectrum and strong translocation, which allow it to eliminate the underground parts of perennial rhizomatous weeds. At the same time, it is easily deactivated in soil and leaves relatively little residue, which is advantageous when arranging subsequent crops. Note that it acts relatively slowly; after application it usually takes several days before the weeds gradually turn yellow and wither, and its efficacy declines somewhat under low-temperature or drought conditions. When using it, spray during the period of vigorous weed growth so that the solution evenly covers the stems and leaves, and mix it with clean water, avoiding muddy water, so as not to affect its performance. If rain falls shortly after application, the effect will be reduced, so pay attention to weather changes and choose fine weather for spraying. Because glyphosate is equally damaging to crops, when spraying, strictly prevent the solution from drifting onto nearby crops and young trees, and be especially careful with sensitive crops such as legumes and vegetables. When using it in orchards, avoid shallow-rooted or young fruit trees, and applicators should also take personal protective measures; leftover spray solution and packaging must be properly disposed of.