What Herbicide Kills Pigweed? [The Best Options for Your Lawn]

Pigweed: A Common Weed and a Tough Opponent

Pigweed is a common weed that can be found in many different types of habitats, from agricultural fields to roadsides to gardens. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach heights of up to 6 feet tall. Pigweed has broad, triangular leaves and produces small, yellow flowers. The seeds of pigweed are easily dispersed by wind and water, and they can germinate in a wide range of conditions.

Pigweed is a difficult weed to control because it is resistant to many herbicides. However, there are a few herbicides that are effective against pigweed. These herbicides include glyphosate, glufosinate, and dicamba. Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide that kills all plants that it comes into contact with. Glufosinate is a selective herbicide that kills only plants that are members of the goosefoot family, which includes pigweed. Dicamba is a selective herbicide that kills only plants that have a certain type of enzyme.

In this article, we will discuss the different herbicides that are effective against pigweed, how to apply them, and the safety precautions that should be taken when using them. We will also provide tips on how to prevent pigweed from becoming a problem in your garden or field.

Herbicide Active Ingredient Application Rate
Glyphosate Glyphosate 4-6 fl oz per acre
2,4-D 2,4-D 1-2 pints per acre
Atrazine Atrazine 1-2 pounds per acre

Pigweed is a common weed that can be found in a variety of different habitats, including fields, gardens, and roadsides. It is a fast-growing plant that can produce a large number of seeds, making it difficult to control. Pigweed can compete with crops for water, nutrients, and sunlight, and it can also harbor pests and diseases.

There are a number of different herbicides that can be used to kill pigweed. The most effective herbicides will depend on the type of pigweed, the stage of growth, and the environmental conditions.

Types of Pigweed

There are three main types of pigweed:

  • Broadleaf pigweed (Amaranthus hybridus) is the most common type of pigweed. It has broad, triangular leaves and grows up to 3 feet tall.
  • Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) is a more aggressive type of pigweed. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves and grows up to 6 feet tall.
  • Smooth pigweed (Amaranthus rudis) is a smaller type of pigweed. It has smooth, oval leaves and grows up to 2 feet tall.

Herbicides That Kill Pigweed

There are a number of different herbicides that can be used to kill pigweed. The most effective herbicides will depend on the type of pigweed, the stage of growth, and the environmental conditions.

  • Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide that can be used to kill all types of pigweed. It is most effective when applied to pigweed that is actively growing.
  • 2,4-D is a selective herbicide that can be used to kill broadleaf weeds, including pigweed. It is most effective when applied to pigweed that is young and actively growing.
  • Dicamba is a selective herbicide that can be used to kill broadleaf weeds, including pigweed. It is most effective when applied to pigweed that is young and actively growing.

Other herbicides

There are a number of other herbicides that can be used to kill pigweed. These herbicides include:

  • Atrazine
  • Imazapyr
  • Paraquat
  • Sethoxydim

Application Rates and Timing

The application rate and timing of herbicides will vary depending on the type of herbicide, the type of pigweed, and the environmental conditions.

  • Glyphosate should be applied at a rate of 1 to 2 pounds per acre. It is most effective when applied to pigweed that is actively growing.
  • 2,4-D should be applied at a rate of 1 to 2 pounds per acre. It is most effective when applied to pigweed that is young and actively growing.
  • Dicamba should be applied at a rate of 1 to 2 pounds per acre. It is most effective when applied to pigweed that is young and actively growing.

Other herbicides

The application rates and timing of other herbicides will vary depending on the specific herbicide. Be sure to read the label carefully before applying any herbicide.

Pigweed is a common weed that can be difficult to control. However, there are a number of different herbicides that can be used to kill pigweed. The most effective herbicides will depend on the type of pigweed, the stage of growth, and the environmental conditions. By following the application rates and timing recommendations on the herbicide label, you can effectively control pigweed and protect your crops.

Additional Information

  • [Pigweed Identification and Control](https://www.extension.org/pages/67236/pigweed-identification-and-control)
  • [Pigweed Control](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/topics/pests/weeds/manage/pigweed/)
  • [Pigweed](https://www.weeds.org/factsheets/pigweed.php)

3. How to Apply Herbicides to Pigweed

Pigweed is a common weed that can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, gardens, and roadsides. It is a particularly troublesome weed because it is resistant to many herbicides. However, there are a few herbicides that are effective at killing pigweed.

The most effective herbicides for killing pigweed are those that contain the active ingredient glyphosate. Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide, which means that it will kill any plant that it comes into contact with. However, it is particularly effective at killing pigweed because it is absorbed by the leaves and translocated throughout the plant. This means that even if the leaves are not completely covered with herbicide, the plant will still be killed.

Glyphosate-based herbicides can be applied to pigweed in a variety of ways. They can be applied as a spray, a granular application, or a drench. The best way to apply glyphosate will depend on the size of the pigweed infestation and the type of equipment that you have available.

Timing of application

The best time to apply glyphosate to pigweed is when the plants are actively growing. This is usually in the spring or summer. However, glyphosate can also be effective at killing pigweed in the fall.

Rate of application

The rate of application of glyphosate will depend on the type of herbicide that you are using. The label on the herbicide will provide specific instructions on the rate of application.

Method of application

The method of application of glyphosate will also depend on the type of herbicide that you are using. Spray applications are the most common method of application. However, granular applications and drench applications can also be effective.

4. Safety Precautions for Using Herbicides

Herbicides can be harmful if they are not used properly. It is important to read and follow the label instructions carefully before using any herbicide.

Personal protective equipment

When using herbicides, it is important to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect yourself from exposure to the herbicide. PPE includes gloves, long-sleeved shirts, pants, boots, and a face shield or goggles.

Disposal of unused herbicide

Unused herbicide should be disposed of properly. The label on the herbicide will provide specific instructions on how to dispose of the herbicide.

Environmental protection

Herbicides can be harmful to the environment if they are not used properly. It is important to follow the label instructions carefully to avoid contaminating water sources, soil, and wildlife.

What Herbicide Will Kill Pigweed?

There are a number of herbicides that are effective at killing pigweed. The most effective herbicides for pigweed are those that contain the active ingredient glyphosate. Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide, which means that it will kill any plant that it comes into contact with. However, it is particularly effective at killing pigweed because it is absorbed through the leaves and roots of the plant. This makes it difficult for pigweed to develop resistance to glyphosate.

Other herbicides that are effective at killing pigweed include those that contain the active ingredients dicamba, 2,4-D, and MCPA. These herbicides are selective herbicides, which means that they will only kill certain types of plants. However, they are also effective at killing pigweed because they are absorbed through the leaves and roots of the plant.

How Much Herbicide Do I Need to Use to Kill Pigweed?

The amount of herbicide you need to use to kill pigweed will depend on the type of herbicide you are using, the size of the pigweed plants, and the environmental conditions. Generally speaking, you will need to use more herbicide to kill larger pigweed plants and in hot, dry conditions.

For most herbicides, the recommended application rate is 1 to 2 pints per acre. However, you may need to increase the application rate if the pigweed plants are large or if the environmental conditions are unfavorable.

When Should I Apply Herbicide to Kill Pigweed?

The best time to apply herbicide to kill pigweed is when the plants are actively growing. This is usually in the spring or early summer. However, you can also apply herbicide to pigweed in the fall.

It is important to note that some herbicides are more effective when applied to pigweed in the spring, while others are more effective when applied in the fall. Be sure to read the label of the herbicide you are using to determine when it is best to apply it.

How Long Does It Take for Herbicide to Kill Pigweed?

The time it takes for herbicide to kill pigweed will vary depending on the type of herbicide you are using, the size of the pigweed plants, and the environmental conditions. Generally speaking, it will take 2 to 4 weeks for herbicide to kill pigweed. However, it may take longer for herbicide to kill larger pigweed plants or in hot, dry conditions.

What Can I Do to Prevent Pigweed from Coming Back?

There are a number of things you can do to prevent pigweed from coming back. These include:

  • Keep your garden free of weeds. Pigweed seeds can survive for several years in the soil, so it is important to remove any pigweed plants that you see as soon as possible.
  • Rotate your crops. Growing the same crop in the same place year after year can increase the risk of pigweed infestation. By rotating your crops, you can help to break the cycle of pigweed infestation.
  • Use mulch. Mulch can help to suppress the growth of pigweed by preventing the seeds from germinating.
  • Prune your trees and shrubs. Pigweed can often grow in the shade of trees and shrubs. By pruning your trees and shrubs, you can help to reduce the amount of shade available to pigweed.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent pigweed from coming back to your garden.

pigweed is a common and troublesome weed that can be difficult to control. However, there are a number of effective herbicides available that can kill pigweed. The best herbicide for your specific situation will depend on the type of pigweed, the growth stage of the plant, and the other plants in the area. By following the tips in this article, you can effectively control pigweed and keep it from interfering with your crops.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • Pigweed is a broadleaf weed that can grow in a variety of conditions.
  • Pigweed can produce up to 1 million seeds per plant, making it difficult to control.
  • There are a number of effective herbicides available to kill pigweed.
  • The best herbicide for your specific situation will depend on the type of pigweed, the growth stage of the plant, and the other plants in the area.
  • By following the tips in this article, you can effectively control pigweed and keep it from interfering with your crops.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.