1. Why does glyphosate herbicide show different levels of effectiveness? Glyphosate is a systemic, organic phosphorus herbicide that leaves no residue in the soil and is widely used in no-till weed control, forestry, and orchards. It can effectively kill weeds growing on the surface but is less effective against underground weeds that have not yet emerged. Glyphosate is known to control over 40 types of weeds, including grasses, broadleaf plants, annuals, perennials, shrubs, algae, and ferns. Farmers often report inconsistent results, which can be attributed to several factors. First, the growth stage of the weeds plays a key role. Since glyphosate is a systemic herbicide, it works best when applied during the most active growth phase. For annual weeds, this is around 15 cm in height, while for perennials, it's about 30 cm with 6–8 leaves. If weeds are too old or sprayed at the wrong time, the herbicidal effect will be poor. Second, the concentration of the solution used also affects efficacy. Many farmers do not follow strict guidelines when applying glyphosate, leading to either under-dosing or over-dosing. The type of weed must be considered—grassy weeds are more sensitive and can be controlled with lower concentrations, while broadleaf weeds may require higher doses. Perennial weeds with rhizomes often need even stronger solutions. As weeds age, they become more resistant, so the dosage must be adjusted accordingly.
Second, how to maximize the effectiveness of glyphosate? One important factor is ensuring that the herbicide reaches the root system. This requires the weeds to have sufficient foliage for absorption. If the weed area is small and the plant has limited leaf surface, the herbicide may not move down to the roots effectively. During the middle to late growth stages, when photosynthesis is strong, the herbicide should be applied when the plant is actively transporting nutrients downward. In corn fields, for example, the best time to apply glyphosate is when the corn is about 1.5 meters tall and has 2–3 mature leaves at the base, and the weeds are around 10 cm high. Environmental conditions also matter. At temperatures between 24–25°C, glyphosate absorption by weeds increases significantly. Higher temperatures improve the herbicide’s performance. High humidity helps the solution stay on the plant longer, aiding absorption. However, dry soil or low moisture levels can hinder the herbicide’s movement within the plant, reducing its effectiveness. Mixing glyphosate with other herbicides can also affect results. Some farmers add other chemicals to target multiple weed species, but this can backfire. For instance, mixing glyphosate with fast-acting herbicides like paraquat or metformin can cause premature death of the plant’s foliage, preventing the herbicide from reaching the roots. However, adding adjuvants such as silicone-based surfactants or growth regulators can enhance the performance of glyphosate.
Fourth, the method of application is crucial. Within a certain concentration range, finer droplets from the sprayer improve absorption. Using a larger volume of solution also enhances the herbicidal effect. Finally, crop safety is essential. Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide, and improper use can harm crops. Farmers sometimes spray it too broadly, causing damage to nearby plants. Also, failing to clean the sprayer after use can lead to contamination when applying other pesticides. If rice is exposed to glyphosate, symptoms may include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or even complete failure to head. It's important to follow proper application techniques and safety measures to avoid these issues.
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