Hillsborough County ISTF - Manatee County Extension Office ...

Herbicide Application TechniquesHerbicide application is a control method in which aherbicide is applied directly to the targeted nuisancevegetation via one of several application techniques.Although there are many effective treatment methods,this field guide will describe three different applicationtechniques suitable for homeowners and professionals.The three techniques are foliar, basal bark and cut-stump.The foliar method involves the application of the herbicidedirectly to the leaves of the plant, while the basalbark technique treats the bark of the plant at or nearground level. The cut-stump method requires the plant tobe cut down and the herbicide applied immediatelyfollowing and directly to the cut surface of the stump.This guide indicates the most effective applicationtechnique(s) for each invasive plant species. Utilizing theappropriate method greatly increases the effectiveness oftreatment and reduces the need for retreatment. However,it is important to note that with the aggressive nature ofinvasive plant species, repeated treatments are oftennecessary depending on the type and extent of aninfestation, effectiveness of the herbicide, and propertechnique selection and application. (Treatmentspresented in this guide indicate control techniques usedby Invasive Species Task Force participants.)The most effective time to apply herbicides is during thespecific growing season of the plant being treated,particularly before seeds are fully developed and dispersedby wildlife. Generally, new vegetation is most vulnerableto herbicides and most readily absorbs the chemical.Please refer to the “Control” section of each species forspecific eradication tips.Foliar ApplicationsThis technique involves applying water-based herbicidedirectly to the leaves and stems of a plant. Herbicides maybe applied to the foliage of the plant using handheld spraybottles, pump sprayers and backpack sprayers. Wettingagents (surfactants) may be added to the mix to furtherenhance leaf coverage. This equipment is available athome improvement stores, garden centers or by mailorder from companies specializing in gardening supplies.For small areas, products with wick or wipe-on applicatorswork well. Foliar treatment of large infestationsutilizes power-driven ground sprayers with boom5