Types of Range & Pasture Herbicides & Their Modes of Action
Range and pasture herbicides help manage unwanted weeds and brush in grazing lands. They are classified based on how they affect plants:
Growth Regulator Herbicides (Synthetic Auxins)
- Mode of Action: Mimic plant hormones (auxins), causing uncontrolled growth that leads to plant death.
- Examples on the Market:
- GrazonNext HL (Aminopyralid + 2,4-D) – Controls broadleaf weeds like thistles and mesquite.
- Tordon 22K (Picloram) – Long-lasting control of woody plants and deep-rooted weeds.
- Surmount (Picloram + Fluroxypyr) – Effective against woody plants and broadleaf weeds.
Amino Acid Inhibitors (ALS Inhibitors)
- Mode of Action: Blocks enzyme activity needed for amino acid production, preventing plant growth.
- Examples on the Market:
- Cimarron Plus (Metsulfuron-methyl + Chlorsulfuron) – Controls broadleaf weeds and brush.
- Chaparral (Aminopyralid + Metsulfuron-methyl) – Used for weed and brush control in pastures.
- Escort XP (Metsulfuron-methyl) – Targets broadleaf weeds, including woody species.
Photosynthesis Inhibitors
- Mode of Action: Disrupts photosynthesis, causing the plant to starve.
- Examples on the Market:
- Velpar L (Hexazinone) – Kills woody plants and tough perennial weeds.
- Spike 80DF (Tebuthiuron) – Used for brush control, including mesquite.
- Power Pellets (Hexazinone) -- Kills woody plants and tough perennial weeds.
Pigment Inhibitors
- Mode of Action: Prevents chlorophyll production, leading to white, bleached leaves and plant death.
- Examples on the Market:
- Outrider (Sulfosulfuron) – Controls johnsongrass and other tough weeds.
Cell Membrane Disruptors (Contact Herbicides)
- Mode of Action: Causes rapid breakdown of plant cells, leading to desiccation.
- Examples on the Market:
- Gramoxone SL 3.0 (Paraquat) – Fast-acting, non-selective burndown herbicide.
Non-Selective Herbicides
- Mode of Action: Kills all vegetation by inhibiting essential enzymes for plant survival.
- Examples on the Market:
- Ranger Pro (Glyphosate) – Broad-spectrum weed and brush control.
- PastureGard HL (Triclopyr + Fluroxypyr) – Targets brush and broadleaf weeds without harming grasses.
Each herbicide has specific application rates and grazing restrictions, so always follow label instructions to ensure safety for livestock and the environment.
At BES-TEX Supply, we are your go-to source for all your herbicide needs. Whether you're managing pastures, rangeland, or lawns, we have the right solutions to keep unwanted weeds under control. Visit us at 4512 Adobe Dr., San Angelo, TX 76903, or call 325.653.1300. Let us help you protect your land with the best herbicides available!