Description of practice
Chemical weed control is the removal of weeds using herbicides of different types (e.g. emergence and contact herbicides). Herbicides can pollute soils and water and might affect soil and aquatic life.
| Examples of how to use chemical weed control | Further information (see Note below) |
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Selective herbicidesSelective herbicides are used to destroy only weeds without harming the crop. Their selectivity is based on translocation, differential absorption, physical or physiological differences between plant species. |
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Non-selective herbicidesNon-selective herbicides are often used to clear waste land. They eradicate all plant material they come into contact with. It is important that the herbicides applied pose a minimal risk (through contamination of groundwater, air or crops) to public health. |
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Organic herbicidesOrganic herbicides are usually used alongside mechanical weed control. They are often non-selective and potentially replace synthetic herbicides, though may be less effective. |
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Vinegar applicationVinegar solutions (of 5-20%) are used to control weeds. However, vinegar mainly destroys surface growth and often the root system remains intact. Repeated treatment is therefore recommended. |
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Note: Most of the Further information links are to a full description of the example in the WOCAT database. However sometimes the link may be to similar practices or a research paper. Occasionally the link is to a commercial product in which case it should be understood that this does not imply any endorsement of the product by iSQAPER.