How Trifluralin Provides Reliable Pre-Emergence Weed Control in Field Crops

Introduction

Trifluralin is a pre-emergence, soil-incorporated herbicide used to control annual grasses and certain broadleaf weeds in a wide range of crops. Known for its residual soil activity and cost-effectiveness, it is an essential herbicide in crops like soybean, cotton, and vegetables, reducing early-season weed competition and promoting stronger crop establishment.

Product Information

• Name: Trifluralin

• Chemical Name: α,α,α-Trifluoro-2,6-dinitro-N,N-dipropyl-p-toluidine

• CAS Number: 1582-09-8

• Appearance: Yellow to orange liquid

• Formulations: EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate), GR (Granules)

• Application Method: Soil application with incorporation

Key Features

• Pre-emergence herbicide requiring soil incorporation

• Controls annual grasses and some broadleaf weeds

• Long residual activity in soil for lasting weed suppression

• Ideal for row crops and vegetables

• Helps reduce reliance on post-emergence herbicides

Applications

Mode of Action

Trifluralin inhibits microtubule formation during cell division in germinating weeds, preventing root and shoot development. Its action stops weeds from emerging while leaving the crop unaffected.

Advantages

• Provides early-season weed control for better crop establishment

• Long residual activity minimizes the need for reapplication

• Broadly used across soybean, cotton, and vegetable systems

• Compatible with other pre-emergence herbicides in tank mixes

Limitations

• Requires mechanical incorporation into soil to prevent loss by volatilization

• No control of emerged weeds

• Risk of carryover injury in sensitive rotational crops

• Repeated use may encourage resistance in some weeds

FAQs

Q: Why must trifluralin be soil-incorporated?
A: Incorporation prevents volatilization and ensures proper soil placement for weed seed germination zones.

Q: Can trifluralin be mixed with other herbicides?
A: Yes, it is often tank-mixed with herbicides like pendimethalin or metribuzin to broaden control.

Q: Does trifluralin work on perennial weeds?
A: No, it is effective only against annual weeds during germination.

Conclusion

Trifluralin is a trusted pre-emergence herbicide that provides residual weed control in key crops. Its soil-incorporated activity helps manage annual grasses and select broadleaf weeds, making it an integral part of early-season weed control programs in soybean, cotton, and vegetables.