What Are Pros and Cons of Glyphosate?

Glyphosate is an effective weed killer.

Glyphosate is a synthetic herbicide used to kill weeds and other unwanted plants. It is the active ingredient in Roundup and WipeOut. Plants absorb glyphosate systemically, and appropriate doses kill plants within 48 hours.

Efficacy

Glyphosate is very effective and reliable. Usually only one application per growing season is necessary to kill weeds.

Environmental Effects

If you must use chemical herbicide, glyphosate is less harmful to soil, waterways and air than other products. It is rapidly and tightly absorbed by soil and experiences minimal runoff, does not vaporize and move into the air, and it degrades rapidly.

Toxicity

Glyphosate does not accumulate in mammals, birds, amphibians, aquatic organisms or insects. It is not a human carcinogen. Research indicates that glyphosate is less harmful to animals per dose than many other common household products, OntarioProfessionals.com says.

Blanket Lethality

The primary disadvantage of glyphosate is its non-selective quality. Glyphosate can kill any small plants it touches, including saplings.

Fumes

If you apply glyphosate in a closed environment such as a greenhouse, you'll need to avoid toxic fumes by wearing protective clothing, eye protection and a respirator. You must be certain children and pets do not enter the building during application.

References

• AgMaster.org: Glyphosate Advantages
• North Carolina State University Extension: Greenhouse Weed Control

Resources

• Australian Plants Online: Glyphosate and Cancer