Herbicides are chemical weed killers that help in controlling the unwanted growth of plants that destroy the entire garden or yard giving it an unsightly appearance. They also come with some side effects like unpleasant odor and are often dangerous for pets, kids, and the environment. Awareness of the potential risks will help you understand how to use herbicides safely. Many organic weed killers exist in the market which are helpful in curbing growth and are also safe to use.
You can also use weed killers for flower beds. Read our blog to learn more about top weed killers for flower beds.
Disadvantages Of Using Weed Killers
Unintentional Spread Of Chemicals
Weed killers used over a large area can damage many plants. This happens because of the wind. Wind blows can spread the chemicals on different plants. These chemicals cause plant injuries such as twisted stem, curled leaves, stunted development, etc. During hot and dry weather conditions these chemical sprays often turn into a gas and can travel to other plants.
Health And Environmental Impact
Excessive use of weed killers is harmful to both health and the environment. These chemicals are toxic and dangerous for humans and animals as well. They can cause illness, skin rashes, breathing difficulty, nausea if inhaled or swallowed. Weed killers are also dangerous for kids and pets so you should always keep these chemicals away from them.
Less Effective
These weed killers are not effective on all types of weeds. Weeds growing in the top 1 to 2 inches of soil respond well to herbicide application but large-seeded varieties can easily withstand these chemicals. You still have to use other methods of killing weed with these chemicals. Another method of removing weed is weed eater. You can read our blog to know more about the benefits of weed eaters.
Residue
Some weed killers remain on plants or in the soil for a long period of time. This is ideal if you want to permanently eradicate all plant growth from a location. This is however problematic in gardening situations where you want to plant new grass, shrubs, or vegetables. Plant damage also occurs when treated plants with residue are used in the landscape for other purposes like mulching.
There are a few points that you should consider while buying weed killers. Read our blog to know about the things to consider while buying weed killers.
Benefits Of Using Weed Killers
Weed Control
You need to block out weeds and unwanted plants so that the garden grows lush with healthy plants to take proper care of your lawn and garden. Weed killers are really helpful if you know the type of weed your garden is getting full of. Organic weed killers like Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed are also really efficient and work within 24 hours. Pre-emergent weed killers help in controlling weeds before they grow, and post-emerging ones are effective when the weeds have already started growing.
Easy To Use
Removing weeds physically is a strenuous task. Gowan USA 51496 SedgeHammer reviews claim that it comes with simple steps that make it easy to use. You have to dig and pull them by hand which requires a lot of manual effort and can put a strain on the back and legs. Weedkillers on the other hand can be easily applied and sprayed to kill the unwanted plant efficiently.
Crop Yield
Weeds compete with other crops for water, sunlight, and nutrients in the soil. This competition is eliminated if you use weed killers. This competition is necessary to promote greater crop yield, fewer food shortages, and lower food prices.
What Is The Best Time To Apply Weed Killers?
The ideal and best time to apply a weed killer is spring. Spring is an effective time for trapping weeds in their pre-growth season. Removing weeds in the pre-growth season prevents them from sprouting. Fall is also nice to apply a weed killer as weeds are the most vulnerable at this time. The top-ranking Southern Ag CROSSBOW32 Weed is a nice option that you can consider if you are looking for a weed killer.
How Often Should I Spray Weed Killer?
You should apply a weed killer two times per year. The first application should be applied before the seeds are set. The second application should be applied when the seeds have a chance to begin growing. A weed killer is not permanent that is why you have to make 2 applications. The customer reviews of Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer show that it can control weed growth for 5 months.
How Long Does It Take For Weed Killer To Work?
These killers generally take about 2 to 4 weeks to fully work. Take care when using a weed killer around plants you wish to keep. It usually takes around 21 days for weeds to get disappeared completely. You should apply the weed killer at the right time to notice the desired results. The customer reviews of Green Gobbler Vinegar Weed mark that it eliminates any type of weed in just a matter of hours.
Conclusion
An herbicide is an easy way to control weed growth and it saves time and effort by leaps and bounds. The usage of organic weed controllers is considered one of the best and safest practices to maintain the beauty of your yard. Some weed killers are designed to work as herbicides and also to serve as fungicides or insecticides.
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