Chemical treatment methods for weeds

The term 'control' is used to describe the way of minimising the effect of weeds in the environment.

Chemical control

Herbicides are widely used and can be applied in a number of different ways, for example cutting down an unwanted sapling tree and painting the herbicide onto the freshly cut surface of the remaining stump with a paint brush

How would use this method in your workplace? For example, other types of measures you can take and tools you can use.

Other chemical control measures include:

• wiping the herbicide onto the weed's leaves with a rope wick applicator
• injecting the herbicide into the trunk of a woody weed
• spot spraying individual plants or spraying selectively (spraying growing points or new regrowth)
• blanket-spraying large areas.

When using chemicals for weed control you need to have a clear understanding of: legislation, including regulations and codes of practice reading and interpreting material safety data sheets (MSDS) reading and interpreting chemical labels (for example, mixing the right proportions) occupational health and safety responsibilities of employees (including wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment) reading and interpreting manufacturer's specifications for setting up equipment (for example, operating the backpack spray environmental considerations (for example, off target damage to surrounding area) maintaining spray records.