Publication 75, Guide to Weed Control 2012-2013
Chapter 18. Roadsides & Non-Crop Areas

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Roadsides, Rights-of-Way, Fencerows and Non-Crop Areas

Fencerows and Farm Areas

In agricultural areas, weeds growing in fencerows, around buildings and on roadsides are sources of potential weed infestation to other parts of a farm. In addition, brush and weeds around fields harbor insects, diseases and other pests that may be detrimental to farming operations. Shrubs like wild cherry may be possible sources of livestock poisoning. Farmers may also wish to reclaim land on which willows or brush have encroached.

Ontario’s cosmetic pesticides ban came into effect April 22, 2009. The requirements of the ban are detailed in Ontario Regulation 63/09 under the Pesticides Act. Use of Class 9 pesticides for agricultural purposes is exempt from the cosmetic pesticides ban. Farmers are not exempt from the cosmetic pesticides ban when using pesticides for maintaining lawns and gardens around the farm house. Lawns and gardens are not considered part of an agricultural operation.

Roadsides, Rights-of-Way and Waste Places

Under exceptions to the cosmetic pesticides ban, Class 9 pesticides can be used in situations related to the promotion of public health or safety. Ontario Reg. 63/09 defines "the promotion of public safety or health" to include "the destruction, prevention, or control of plants, fungi or animals that affect public works or other buildings and structures." Public work is defined in the regulation, and means a structure that provides a benefit to the public and that is owned or operated by the Government of Ontario or Canada or by any board or commission thereof, or by any municipal corporation, public utility commission or by private enterprise and includes:

  • Any railway, canal, highway, bridge, power works including all property used for the generation, transformation, transmission, distribution or supply of hydraulic or electrical power, gas works, water works, public utility or other work.

Class 9 pesticides can be used in an extermination related to public works only for the following:

  • To prevent structural damage to a public work, if the potential damage to the public work caused by the pest would place the health or safety of a person at risk.
  • For essential maintenance of the public work, if the pest would interfere with or prevent the essential maintenance.
  • To allow for emergency access to the public work.
  • To ensure the security of the public work if the pest would place the security at risk (eg. vegetation-free security perimeters at power generating facilities).
  • To prevent damage to the structural integrity of a building or other structure that is not part of a public work, if the potential damage caused to the building or structure by the pest could place the health or safety of a person at risk.

The use of pesticides for the above mentioned applications does not include the use of Class 9 pesticides along portions of highways that are accessed by pedestrians on a regular basis or other portions where the public is invited to stop, including a rest area or picnic area.

Commencing April 22, 2010, Class 9 pesticides used for extermination with respect to a public work must be applied by an appropriately licensed exterminator who is certified by the Integrated Pest Managment Council of Canada (IPMCC) as a Public Works IPM Certified Applicator or licensed exterminator working under written instructions of a person who is a Public Works IPM Certified Applicator certified by the IPMCC body. The owner or operator of the public work is responsible for ensuring an annual report is prepared that summarizes all pesticides used.

Integrated Weed Management (IWM) on rights-of-way (ROW) and roadsides is based on the principles discussed in Section 1 Principles of Integrated Weed Management. IWM in public work situations involves managing weeds and brush by encouraging compatible vegetation by using a mixture of all tools available, such as competitive or allelopathic vegetation cover, mechanical and chemical weed control, biological weed control, and cultural methods. Compatible vegetation that competitively reduces weed and brush invasion is planted or allowed to develop naturally through selective and targeted herbicide applications (such as directed foliar, basal bark and cut-surface applications) or other weed control methods. Zonal management allows for reduced control measures on parts of a ROW based on the safety limitations. Pre and post control monitoring of problem vegetation and compatible vegetation goals permits the matching of treatments to the problem weeds or brush and the adjustment of programs to improve effectiveness. Effective programs incorporating targeted herbicide applications and both post-emergent and residual products extend the time periods between treatments based on individual ROW requirements.

Both railway and power supply authorities are concerned with maintaining safe and accessible rights-of-way by controlling growth of weeds and brush. In certain areas (beneath guide rails, in storage yards, under railway tracks and under fences at road intersections), it may be advantageous to completely kill all vegetation for long-term control. Consider vegetation control measures such as mechanical (e.g. cutting or mowing) and cultural practices (e.g. seeding desirable species) as an alternative to herbicides.

Precautions should always be taken to minimize herbicide drift in roadside and right-of-way vegetation management. It is advisable to inspect or monitor each roadside just prior to spraying to locate susceptible crops, water crossings, portions of highways that are accessed by pedestrians on a regular basis or other portions where the public is invited to stop, and other sensitive areas. Appropriate "shut off" and "turn on" points should be marked so these areas can be avoided during the actual spray operation.

Reduction of Herbicidal Drift

In the application of herbicides, especially of the hormone type (2,4-D, mecoprop, dichlorprop, dicamba, etc.) sensitive crops (grapes, tomatoes, turnips, tobacco, beans, carrots, beets, fruit trees, ornamental plants and many others) beyond the area being sprayed can be damaged by vapor or spray drift.
To reduce the danger of herbicidal drift:
  1. Use only amine formulations when it is necessary to apply phenoxy herbicides (2,4-D, mecoprop, dichlorprop, etc.) near sensitive, non-target plants.
  2. Very slight spray drift with herbicides containing dicamba can be more damaging to soybeans and other crops than equivalent amounts of 2,4-D spray drift. There is also a possibility of dicamba vapor drift from treated plant foliage during high temperatures (in excess of 25°C); thus, use of dicamba containing herbicides should be avoided near sensitive, desirable plants.
  3. Use the lowest pressure possible to apply the herbicide. This may mean the use of a dribble bar, Radiarc® boom, vibrajet nozzle, Directa-spra™ nozzle, flood jet or more conventional nozzle tips.
  4. Manufacturer’s recommendations regarding nozzle spacing and height should be carefully followed. It may be necessary to mount nozzles on skids to keep them at a constant distance from the surface to be sprayed.
  5. For roadside spraying various spray additives are available which may reduce spray drift by increasing the viscosity or density of the spray. These materials should be used following manufacturer’s directions and observing normal precautions (vehicle speed, wind velocity, proximity to sensitive crops, etc.).

WARNING – These methods and materials can reduce but not eliminate herbicidal drift. In areas near sensitive crops, all normal precautions must be taken. It should be emphasized that extremely low, even invisible, amounts of spray drift can be very damaging to sensitive crops.

TABLE 18-1. Susceptibility of Various Weeds to Non-Crop Land Herbicides

Weeds

Noxious1

2,4-D ESTER (660 g/L)2

AMITROL 240

ARSENAL

CASORON

CLEARVIEW

DIUREX/KARMEX

dichlorprop/2,4-D (610 g/L)2

ESCORT

FIESTA

GARLON XRT

glyphosate (360 g/L)2

HYVAR X-L

MILESTONE

MUNGER HORT. VINEGAR PLUS

PAYLOAD

TELAR

TORDON 101

LONTREL 360

VANQUISH

C = Controlled, S = Suppressed, TG = Top Growth, NC = Not Controlled

(rate of herbicide product per hectare required to achieve control or suppression)

bedstraw, smooth

 

 

 

 

 

C

(170 g)

 

 

 

 

C

(2.5 L)

C

(2% v/v)

 

C

(0.5 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

bindweed, field

 

S

(1.28 L)

 

C

(3 L)

C

(175 kg)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2.5 L)

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2.3 L)

burdock, common

 

TG

(1.28 L)

 

C

(3 L)

 

 

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

C

(2.5 L)

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(7 L)

 

 

buttercup

 

TG

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

C

(135 kg)

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

C

(4.2% v/v)

 

 

 

C

(0.29 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

bluebur

 

C

(1.28L)

 

 

 

C

(135 kg)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

carrot, wild

check

 

 

C

(3 L)

 

C

(230 g)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

C

(45 L)

 

S

(45% v/v)

 

C

(70 g)

C

(7 L)

 

 

chervil, wild

 

 

 

S

(3 L)

 

C

(170 kg)

 

S

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

chamomile, scentless

 

 

 

 

 

C

(135 kg)

 

 

C

(20 g)

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

C

(0.38 L)

 

 

C

(30 g)

 

C

(0.56 L)

C

(1.25 L)

chicory

 

TG

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

NC

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

C

(2.5 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

cinquefoil, sulphur

 

 

 

C

(3 L)

 

 

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(9.2 L)

cocklebur

 

C

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

 

S

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

C

(1% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

colt’s foot

check

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

clover, alsike

 

 

 

C

(3 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S

(45% v/v)

 

 

 

C

(0.42 L)

 

clover, sweet

 

C

(1.28 L)

 

C

(3 L)

 

C

(135 g)

 

C

(2.75 L)

C

(20 g)

 

 

 

 

 

S

(45% v/v)

 

C

(15 g)

C

(7 L)

 

 

cudweed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(0.38 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

daisy, ox-eye

 

 

 

C

(3 L)

 

C

(135 g)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(0.29 L)

 

 

 

 

C

(0.56 L)

 

dandelion

 

S

(1.28 L)

C

(12.5 L)

C

(3 L)

 

C

(135 g)

C

(11.25 kg)

C

(2.75 L)

C

(25 g)

C

(4.2% v/v)

C

(2.5 L)

C

(2% v/v)

C

(45 L)

 

S

(45% v/v)

C

(0.42 kg)

S

(70 g)

C

(3.7 L)

 

 

dock spp.

 

TG

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

C

(135 g)

 

 

 

 

C

(2.5 L)

C

(2% v/v)

 

C

(0.38 L)

S

(45% v/v)

 

 

C

(7 L)

 

 

dogbane

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

dog strangling vine

 

 

 

C

(3 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

fern, bracken

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(9.2 L)

fleabane spp.

 

C

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

C

(135 g)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

C

(0.29 L)

S

(45% v/v)

 

 

C

(7 L)

 

 

goat’s beard

check

C

(1.28 L)

 

C

(3 L)

 

C

(135 g)

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(4.6 L)

goldenrod

 

 

 

C

(3 L)

 

S

(135 g)

C

(11.25 kg)

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S

(70 g)

C

(7 L)

 

C

(2.3 L)

hemlock, poison

 

NC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

hogweed, giant

check

NC

 

 

 

C

(135 g)

 

 

 

NC

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

NC

 

 

 

 

 

horsetail

 

 

C

(16.5 L)

 

C

(175 kg)

 

 

S

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(70 g)

 

 

 

horsenettle

 

 

 

 

 

C

(135 g)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

C

(0.29 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

kochia

 

C

(1.28 L)

 

C

(3 L)

 

C

(135 g)

S

C

(2.75 L)

C

(20 g)

 

 

C

(1% v/v)

 

 

 

 

C

(15 g)

 

 

 

knapweed diffuse

check

 

 

 

 

C

(135 g)

S

(11.25 kg)

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(0.29 L)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(4.6 L)

knapweed, Russian

check

S

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

C

(135 g)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(0.29 L)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(9.2 L)

knapweed, spotted

check

 

 

 

 

C

(135 g)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(0.29 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

knotweed, Japanese

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

kudzu

 

 

 

C

(3 L)

 

C

(230 g)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

lettice, prickly

 

C

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

C

(230 g)

 

 

 

 

C

(2.5 L)

C

(1% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(7 L)

 

 

milkweed

check

 

C

(28 L)

C

(3 L)

 

 

C

(11.25 kg)

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

parsnip, wild

 

 

 

 

 

C

(170 g)

 

S

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

C

(0.5 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

pragmites

(common reed)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

plantain spp.

 

C

(1.28 L)

 

C

(3 L)

 

C2

(135 g)

 

 

 

C/S3

(4.2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

S

(45% v/v)

 

 

C

(7 L)

 

 

poison-ivy

check

 

C

(9.25 L)

C

(3 L)

 

 

 

C

(0.8% v/v)

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C4

(1.7 L)

quackgrass

 

 

C

(16.5 L)

 

C

(175 kg)

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

C

(45 L)

 

S

(45% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

ragweed

check

C

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

 

C

(11.25 kg)

 

 

 

C

(2.5 L)

C

(1% v/v)

C

(45 L)

C

(0.29 L)

S

(45% v/v)

C

(0.42 kg)

C

(15 g)

C

(7 L)

C

(0.56 L)

C

(2.3 L)

ragwort, tansy

 

NC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(0.38 L)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2.3 L)

sorrel, sheep

 

C

(1.28 L)

 

C

(3 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(0.56 L)

 

spurge, cypress

check

 

 

 

C

(175 kg)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

spurge, leafy

check

S

(1.28 L)

C

(37.5 L)

C

(3 L)

C

(175 kg)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(1.25 L)

stinging nettle

 

C

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

tansy

 

 

 

 

 

C

(135 g)

 

C

(2.75 L)

C

(20 g)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

teasel

 

TG

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

thistle, bull

check

TG

(1.28 L)

 

S

 

C

(135 g)

C

(11.25 kg)

C

(2.75 L)

 

C

(4.2% v/v)

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

thistle, Canada

check

TG

(1.28 L)

C

(16.5 L)

 

C

(175 kg)

C

(135 g)

C

(11.25 kg)

C

(2.75 L)

S

(20 g)

C

(4.2% v/v)

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

C

(0.29 L)

S

(45% v/v)

 

S

(70 g)

C

(3.7 L)

C

(0.56 L)

C

(1.25 L)

thistle, sow (perennial)

check

TG

(1.28 L)

C

(16.5 L)

 

S

C

(135 g)

C

(11.25 kg)

C

(2.75 L)

S

(20 g)

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

C

(0.29 L)

 

 

C

(70 g)

 

C

(0.56 L)

C

(1.25 L)

thistle, Russian

check

C

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

C

(135 g)

 

 

C

(20 g)

 

 

C

(1% v/v)

 

 

 

 

C

(15 g)

 

 

 

toadflax

 

 

C

(28 L)

C

(3 L)

 

 

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

 

S

(45% v/v)

 

 

 

 

 

vetch

 

S

(1.28 L)

 

C

(3 L)

S

 

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

C

(2.5 L)

 

 

 

S

(45% v/v)

 

 

C

(7 L)

C

(0.42 L)

 

wormwood, biennial

 

S

(1.28 L)

 

 

S

C

(230 g)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2% v/v)

 

C

(0.5 L)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(1.25 L)

yarrow

 

 

 

 

 

S

(230 g)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

(3.7 L)

 

 

yellow rocket

check

TG

(1.28 L)

 

 

 

 

 

C

(2.75 L)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BOLD letters indicate the weed is listed on the product label for control or suppression.

1 Noxious Weed as listed under the Weed Control Act , R.S.O. 1990, Chapter W.5.

2 Numerous products exist, refer to Table 4-1. Herbicides Used in Ontario, page 29.

3 Controls narrow leaved plantain and suppresses broad-leaved plantain.

4 Must be tank-mixed with 2,4-D to achieve this level of control.

 

TRADE NAME
(Concentration)

active ingredient

PRODUCT RATE
PER HECTARE

active rate per ha

PRODUCT RATE

PER ACRE

PRECAUTIONS

For more information, see Chapter 4. Herbicides Used in Ontario, page 27
and Chapter 5. Notes on Adjuvants, page 77.

Poisonous Plant Management

Giant Hogweed

Giant hogweed is a perennial weed, meaning the same plant will grow for more than two years. New plants are established only from seed. What is unique about giant hogweed is that it only flowers and produces seed once in its lifetime. Once it has produced seed, the plant dies. Therefore the strategy for limiting the spread and movement of giant hogweed is to stop seed production. This is easier said then done. The most appropriate time of year to remove plants is in late April or early May as plants are typically less than 30 cm in height, and are more susceptible to herbicide applications. Extreme heat and humidity are also avoided which make wearing appropriate protective clothing more comfortable.

 

To see a video on giant hogweed, scan this QR code with your smart phone or visit ontario.ca/xo36.

 

QR Code for video using your smart phone

 

Figure 18-1. Jet Injector Gun

 

Image: Injecting 10 mL of a 5% glyphosate solution with a jet injector gun.

 

Spot Applications: Late April/Early May (ideal plant stage: 30 cm in height or less)

glyphosate (360 g/L)*

 

glyphosate

2 L/100 L water

 

720 g/100 L water

 
  • Best applied as a spot application using a backpack sprayer.
  • Apply to actively growing plants.
  • Spray coverage should be uniform and complete.
  • Do NOT spray to the point of runoff.
  • Evaluate treated area 10–14 days after application to identify and treat any plants missed during the first application.
    		•

    Stem Injection (See Figure 18-1, on this page): Late May/Early June (plants that are between 1–2 m tall)

    glyphosate (360 g/L)*

     

    glyphosate

    10 mL of a 5% glyphosate solution/plant
  • Best for small patches of giant hogweed that have gotten too large for spot applications with a backpack sprayer.
  • Insert the injection gun at about chest height but below a node on the stem.
  • Stem injections are best done with a jet injector gun which can be purchased at
    www.jkinjectiontools.com (See Figure 18-1, on this page).
    		•

    Research Update: In preliminary University of Guelph research trials, CLEARVIEW (aminopyralid/metsulfuron-methyl) has demonstrated acceptable control of giant hogweed. Further experimentation to verify these initial findings are ongoing.

    Parsnip, Wild

    Wild parsnip is a biennial/perennial weed that reproduces by seed. The majority of seed germinates in the spring. Therefore, applications should be timed in the early part of spring to control seedlings and then again in the fall to control established first year rosette plants that were missed in the spring. Hand spudding that cuts off the root below ground is effective control for small patches.

    April/May and Sept/Oct

    glyphosate (360 g/L)*

     

    glyphosate

    2 L/ 100 L water

     

    720 g/100 L water

     
  • Best applied as a spot application using a backpack sprayer.
  • Apply to actively growing plants.
  • Spray coverage should be uniform and complete.
  • Do NOT spray to the point of runoff.
  • Evaluate treated area 10–14 days after application to identify and treat any plants missed during the first application.
    		•

    Research Update: In preliminary public research trials, MILESTONE (aminopyralid) and DISTINCT (diflufenzopyr/dicamba) have demonstrated acceptable control of wild parsnip. Further experimentation to verify these initial findings are ongoing.

    Poison-Ivy

    Several herbicides have been shown to be effective for the control of poison-ivy. However, some growth may occur after treatment with any of these chemicals and re-treatment will be necessary to achieve eradication. The use of a herbicide treatment for poison-ivy must take into account the location in which the weed is growing. If desirable vegetation is close by exercise caution when applying herbicides so as to avoid off-target drift.

     

    A 9–14 L sprayer is the most convenient method of applying herbicides to patches of poison-ivy. Thorough coverage of the leaves with the spray is essential for maximum effect. After spraying, leave the area alone until the plants die, at which time gather and bury the dead stems. Even at this stage poisoning may be brought about by handling the dead plant so protective clothing (e.g. rubber gloves, rain suit) is recommended. All treatments are most effective when poison-ivy is in full leaf and growing actively, from about June 15–July 31.

    Postemergence to Poison-Ivy

    AMITROL 240 (231 g/L)

     

    amitrole

    9.25 L/ha

     

    2.25 kg/ha

    3.7 L/ac
  • Apply in at least 1,000 L/ha water (400 L/ac) when plants are actively growing. Thoroughly wet all foliage.
    		•

    ARSENAL (240 g/L)

     

    imazapyr

    3 L/ha

     

    0.72 kg/ha

    1.2 L/ac
  • Apply in sufficient water (100–550 L/ha (40–220 L/ac)) to wet all foliage during periods of active growth.
    		•

    dichlorprop/2,4-D (610 g/L)*

    or dichlorprop/2,4-D (582 g/L)*

    8 L/1,000 L water

    11.7 L/1,000 L water

     
  • Best applied as a spot application using a backpack sprayer.
  • Apply spray until foliage is thoroughly wet.
    		•

    glyphosate (360 g/L)*

     

    glyphosate

    2 L/100 L water

     

    720 g/100 L water

     
  • Best applied as a spot application using a backpack sprayer.
  • Apply to actively growing plants.
  • Spray coverage should be uniform and complete.
  • Do NOT spray to the point of runoff.
    		•

    VANQUISH (480 g/L)

    or ORACLE (480 g/L)

    or VMD (480 g/L)

    + 2,4-D Amine (470 g/L)*

     

    dicamba

    + 2,4-D

    1.7 L/ha

     

     

    2.2 L/ha

     

    0.82 kg/ha

    1.1 kg/ha

    0.68 L/ac

     

     

    0.88 L/ac
  • Apply in at least 560 L/ha water (224 L/ac).
    		•

    Invasive Plant Management

    The impact of invasive species on crop land, native ecosystems, habitats and species is severe and often irreversible. The following section outlines best management practices based on herbicides that list the specific invasive species on their label as well as experience gained through public research trials conducted in Ontario.

    Bedstraw, Smooth – rangeland, permanent pasture and non-crop areas

    GARLON XRT (755 g/L)

     

    triclopyr

    0.6–2.5 L/ha

     

    0.45–1.89 kg/ha

    0.24–1 L/ac
  • Apply in 200–300 L/ha water (80–120 L/ac) when smooth bedstraw is actively growing. Increase rates as smooth bedstraw gets larger.
  • Do NOT allow livestock to consume treated forage for 14 days following treatment.
  • Do NOT harvest treated forage for 14 days following treatment.
    		•

    Dog Strangling Vine – rangeland, permanent pasture and non-crop areas

    ARSENAL (240 g/L)

     

    imazapyr

    3 L/ha

     

    0.72 kg/ha

    1.2 L/ac
  • Apply in sufficient water (100–550 L/ha (40–220 L/ac)) to wet all foliage during periods of active growth (early May for dog strangling vine).
  • Do NOT graze the treated area or cut for hay.
  • Do NOT apply in areas where tree roots may extend into the treated area.
  • This product can only be applied by licensed applicators.
    		•

    Research Update: Dog strangling vine is a prolific seed producer, establishes dense stands throughout the growing season and produces multiple stems from the crowns of established plants. Effective control will require a systemic herbicide to control established plants, and if using a non-residual herbicide, a follow-up application will be needed to control new seedlings. Herbicide choice will be determined by current and planned uses for the site. Experimentation is underway to label additional products for dog strangling vine control.

    Garlic Mustard – forested areas

    Research Update: A study conducted by Dr. Stephen Murphy (University of Waterloo) demonstrated that by planting bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) at a density of 11 plant/m2 or greater reduced populations of garlic mustard in wooded areas.

    Phragmites (Common Reed) – non-crop areas

    ROUNDUP WEATHERMAX

    or VISION MAX (540 g/L)

     

    glyphosate

    1.34 L/100 L water

     

     

    720 g/100 L water

     
  • Best applied as a spot application using a backpack sprayer.
  • Apply to actively growing plants in full bloom, typically in later summer or early fall.
  • Spray coverage should be uniform and complete.
  • Do NOT spray to the point of runoff.
  • Do NOT spray if there is standing water in the area where the phragmites exist.
  • A BMP document can be found at www.ontarioinvasiveplants.ca.
    		•

    Purple Loosestrife – non-crop areas

    glyphosate (360 g/L)*

     

    glyphosate

    2 L/ 100 L water

     

    720 g/100 L water

     
  • Best applied as a spot application using a backpack sprayer.
  • Apply to actively growing plants.
  • Spray coverage should be uniform and complete.
  • Do NOT spray to the point of runoff.
    		•

    Bio-Control Options: Galerucella beetles have provided effective biological control of purple loosestrife. The only known source of these beetles is through Ontario Beetles, P.O. Box 458, Paris, ON, N3L 3T5. Phone number: 519-442-3921.

    Wild Chervil – rangeland, permanent pasture and non-crop areas

    glyphosate (360 g/L)*

     

    glyphosate

    2 L/ 100 L water

     

    720 g/100 L water

     
  • Best applied as a spot application using a backpack sprayer.
  • Apply to actively growing plants.
  • Spray coverage should be uniform and complete.
  • Do NOT spray to the point of runoff.
    		•

    Rights-of-Way and Roadside Vegetation Management

    The main objectives of a weed control program for rights-of-way (ROW) and roadsides are: (1) to ensure ROW and highway access, safety and security; (2) to control weeds during establishment of seeded cover; (3) to control noxious and other weeds that may infest adjacent land by wind dispersal of seed; (4) to maintain a perennial, deep-rooted plant cover that will minimize erosion problems; (4) to control tall growing weeds so that mowing costs can be minimized; and (5) to prevent buildup of excessive vegetation that can become a fire hazard in the late summer or complicate snow removal in winter. Refer to Table 18-1. Susceptibility of Various Weeds to Non-Crop Land Herbicides, page 365 to identify weed species controlled by herbicides outlined in this section.

    Postemergence Broadleaf Herbicides

    2,4-D Amine 500 (470 g/L)*

    or 2,4-D Amine 600 (564 g/L)*

    or 2,4-D Ester 600 (564 g/L)*

    or 2,4-D Ester 700 (660 g/L)*

    1.7–4.5 L/ha

    up to 3.9 L/ha

    1.5–2.75 L/ha

    1.28–2.35 L/ha

    0.68–1.8 L/ac

    up to 1.56 L/ac

    0.6–1.1 L/ac

    0.51–0.94 L/ac
  • Apply in 100–300 L/ha water (40–120 L/ac) at the time of rapid weed growth (typically May, June and/or September).
  • Use the higher rate for larger weeds, dry or cold weather, or heavy infestations.
  • Do NOT apply more than two treatments per year.
    		•

    CLEARVIEW (52.5/9.45%)

     

    aminopyralid/metsulfuron-methyl

    135–230 g/ha

     

    83.6–142.5 g/ha

    54–92 g/ac
  • Apply in a minimum of 110–200 L/ha water (44–80 L).
  • Product rates vary depending on the type of weed species targeted. Refer to Table 18-1. Susceptibility of Various Weeds to Non-Crop Land Herbicides, page 365 for the appropriate rate.
    		•

    dichlorprop/2,4-D (610 g/L)*

    or dichlorprop/2,4-D (582 g/L)*

    2.75 L/ha

    4 L/ha

     

    1.1 L/ac

    1.6 L/ac
  • Apply in 200–600 L/ha water (80–240 L/ac) during early summer for most species.
  • Some weed species may require a second application.
    		•

    ESCORT (60%)

    + non-ionic surfactant

     

    metsulfuron methyl

    20–30 g/ha

    0.2% v/v

     

    12–18 g/ha

    8–12 g/ac

    0.2% v/v
  • Product rates vary depending on the type of weed species targeted. Refer to Table 18-1. Susceptibility of Various Weeds to Non-Crop Land Herbicides, page 365 for the appropriate rate.
  • Apply postemergence to young (less than 10 cm tall or across) annual weeds, biennial and perennial weeds up to the early bud stag. Weeds should be actively growing at the time of application.
  • Temporary chlorosis, height reduction or growth suppression of desired grass species may occur.
    		•

    GARLON XRT (755 g/L)

     

    triclopyr

    0.6–2.5 L/ha

     

    0.45–1.89 kg/ha

    0.24–1 L/ac
  • Apply in 200–300 L/ha water (80–120 L/ac) when weeds are actively growing.
  • Do NOT allow livestock to consume treated forage for 14 days following treatment.
  • Do NOT harvest treated forage for 14 days following treatment.
    		•

    LONTREL (360 g/L)

     

    clopyralid

    0.42–0.83 L/ha

     

    0.15–0.3 kg/ha

    0.17–0.33 L/ac
  • For Canada thistle, perennial sow-thistle, spotted knapweed and coltsfoot.
  • Treat when weeds are young and actively growing.
  • For coltsfoot, treatments should be performed prior to August.
  • Apply as a broadcast foliar in 200 L/ha water (80 L/ac) or in sufficient water to ensure thorough coverage of target vegetation.
  • For spot treatment apply in 800 L and spray weeds to the point of run-off.
    		•

    MILESTONE (240 g/L)

     

    aminopyralid

    0.25–0.5 L/ha

     

    60–120 g /ha

    0.10–0.20 L/ac
  • Apply postemergence.
  • Will control: absinth (biennial) wormwood, goldenrod, knapweed, scentless chamomile, Canada thistle, yellow star thistle, musk (nodding) thistle, sulphur cinquefoil and tropical soda apple.
  • Will suppress: common tansy and dandelion.
    		•

    MILESTONE (240 g/L)

    + 2,4-D Amine 600 (564 g/L)*

     

    aminopyralid

    + 2,4-D Amine

    0.25–0.5 L/ha

    1.49–2.55 L/ha

     

    60–120 g /ha

    840–1440 g /ha

    0.10–0.20 L/ac

    0.6–1 L/ac
  • Apply postemergence.
  • For wider spectrum of weed control, 2,4-D amine may be added at a ratio of 1 part MILESTONE ai/ha to 12 parts 2,4-D amine ai/ha.
    		•

    TELAR (75 DF)

     

    chlorsulfuron

    75 g/ha

     

    53 g/ha

    30 g/ac
  • Add a surfactant to improve control.

    • TORDON 101 ((1:3.7) 305 g/L)

     

    picloram/ 2,4-D

    3.7–7 L/ha

     

    1.12–2.14 kg/ha

    1.48–2.8 L/ac
  • Apply in 200 L/ha water (80 L/ac) during the spring or early summer after growth appears. Use an approved drift control additive or system.
  • The lower rate will only control Canada thistle, dandelion and common yarrow.
  • A permit for purchase and use is required.

    • VANQUISH (480 g/L)

    or ORACLE (480 g/L)

    or VMD (480 g/L)

     

    dicamba

    1.25–9.2 L/ha

     

     

     

    0.6–4.416 kg/ha

    0.5–3.68 L/ac
  • Apply when weeds are actively growing in 100–200 L/ha water (40–80 L/ac).
  • Refer to Table 18-1. Susceptibility of Various Weeds to Non-Crop Land Herbicides, page 365 for the appropriate product rate/ha needed to control the target weed species.
    		•

    Postemergence Grass and Broadleaf Herbicides

    AMITROL 240 (231 g/L)

     

    amitrole

    12.5–16.5 L/ha

     

    3–4 kg/ha

    5–6.6 L/ac
  • For dandelion, Canada thistle, perennial sow-thistle and quackgrass.
  • Apply to the point of runoff when the thistles are in the head stage of growth.
  • Use spot treatments only, since grasses are susceptible to this chemical and may be controlled for up to 1 season.
    		•

    AMITROL 240 (231 g/L)

     

    amitrole

    18.75–28 L/ha

     

    4.5–6.75 kg/ha

    7.5–11.2 L/ac
  • For milkweed, spray to wet in early summer before flowering.
  • For horsetail, toadflax, and quackgrass.
  • Spray when horsetail is growing vigorously.
  • Use spot treatments only, since grasses are susceptible to this chemical and may be controlled for up to 1 season.

    • DIUREX 80WDG

    or KARMEX (80 DF)

     

    diuron

    11.25 kg/ha

     

     

    9 kg/ha

    4.5 kg/ac
  • Apply in sufficient water (250–400 L/ha (100–160 L/ac)).
  • The level and duration of weed control may be affected by soil type and organic matter. A sandier soil, low in organic matter may exhibit longer periods of weed control versus a heavier clay soil that is high in organic matter.
    		•

    FIESTA (4.43%)

     

    iron (FeHEDTA)

    1 L/24 L of water

     
  • Apply the mixed solution at a rate of 200-400 mL/m2. Use the 200 mL/m2 rate for small weeds and 400 mL/m2 on larger weeds.
  • 1 L of product will treat 62.5–125 m2.
  • Uniform coverage is needed to control target weeds.
  • Repeat application in four or more weeks after the first treatment if necessary.
  • Do NOT apply more than 2 times per year.
  • Do NOT apply if rainfall is expected within 3 hours of application.
    		•

    glyphosate (360 g/L)*

    or glyphosate (480 g/L)*

    or glyphosate (500 g/L)*

    or glyphosate (540 g/L)*

     

    glyphosate

    10–20 L/1,000 L

    7.5–15 L/1,000 L

    7.2–14.4 L/1,000 L

    6.67–13.3 L/1,000 L

     

    3.6–7.2 kg/1,000 L

     
  • Most woody and herbaceous species. Can be applied as spot treatment during June, July or August. Refer to label for optimum weed stage for best control.
  • Injury to grasses will occur; use other selective products if grasses are to be maintained.
    		•

    HYVAR X-L (240 g/L)

     

    bromacil

    30–45 L/ha

     

    7.2–10.8 kg/ha

    12–18 L/ac

     

    KROVAR ((1:1) 80 DF)

     

    bromacil/diuron

    13.5–18 kg/ha

     

    10.8–14.4 kg/ha

    5.4–7.2 kg/ac

     

    MUNGER HORTICULTURAL VINEGAR PLUS (20%)

     

    citric acid

    1 L/3 L of water

     
  • Best results are achieved on sunny days with temperatures at or above 21°C and when weeds are small (3–5 leaf) and actively growing.
  • A rate of 1 L product/2.25 L water should be used for larger weeds and may require re-treatment.
  • Complete coverage is needed to control target weeds.
  • Repeat application in four or more weeks after the first treatment if necessary.
  • Do NOT apply to desirable plants.
  • Do NOT apply if rainfall is expected within 1 hour of application.
    		•

    Vegetation Management – Long Term Non-Selective

    In certain areas (such as in rights-of-way facilities yards, in storage yards, on railway tracks, beneath guide rails, and under fences at road intersections), it may be necessary to completely kill all vegetation for long-term control for safety, access and flammability concerns.

     

    CAUTION: These chemicals should not be used to treat areas that are close to gardens, desirable trees, etc. Since these chemicals are non-selective (will kill any plant that they contact), special care must be used in their application. If the area (for example, a facilities yard) is higher than a nearby lawn, the chemical may wash onto the lawn with the first rain. If trees or shrubs are feeding under the treated areas, the chemical may leach to their roots and cause injury.

     

    It may be desirable to maintain certain areas completely free of vegetation. Usually two problems are involved. First, the existing vegetation must be destroyed, including the destruction of underground stems and roots of perennials. Second, the bare area thus produced must be maintained either by persistent soil active chemicals or by foliage treatment of emerged weed seedlings and plants.

     

    Some chemicals will kill existing vegetation. Others, while excellent for maintaining the bare area, may be used more economically if combined with another chemical to kill existing growth. If a mixed population of weeds is present, combinations of chemicals that will kill the different weed types may be used advantageously.

     

    Uniform coverage with all chemicals is essential. Touch up operations should be expected, as a single treatment will seldom give complete eradication. Usually 2 applications of the lower recommended rate (i.e. 5.5–11 kg/ha), depending on the chemical used, spaced 6–12 months apart, give better results than a single application of the higher recommended rate. This approach also reduces the risk of off-site movement.

    Bare Areas – Non selective control of all vegetation

    ARSENAL (240 g/L)

     

    imazapyr

    3 L/ha

     

    0.72 kg/ha

    1.2 L/ac
  • Apply in sufficient water (100–550 L/ha (40–220 L/ac)) to wet all foliage during periods of active growth.
  • Do NOT graze the treated area or cut for hay.
  • Do NOT apply in areas where tree roots may extend into the treated area.
    		•

    DIUREX 80WDG

    or KARMEX (80 DF)

     

    diuron

    11.25 kg/ha

     

     

    9 kg/ha

    4.5 kg/ac
  • Apply in sufficient water (250–400 L/ha (100–160 L/ac)).
  • The level and duration of weed control may be affected by soil type and organic matter. A sandier soil, low in organic matter may exhibit longer periods of weed control versus a heavier clay soil that is high in organic matter.
    		•

    glyphosate (360 g/L)*

    or glyphosate (480 g/L)*

    or glyphosate (500 g/L)*

    or glyphosate (540 g/L)*

     

    glyphosate

    10–20 L/1,000 L

    7.5–15 L/1,000 L

    7.2–14.4 L/1,000 L

    6.67–13.3 L/1,000 L

     

    3.6–7.2 kg/1,000 L

     
  • Controls established plants of most woody and herbaceous species. Can be applied whenever plants are green and actively growing.
  • No residual control is provided.
    		•

    HYVAR X-L (240 g/L)

     

    bromacil

    25.7–45 L/ha

     

    6.16–10.8 kg/ha

    10.3–18 L/ac
  • Mullein is not adequately controlled by HYVAR X-L.
    		•

    KROVAR ((1:1)80 DF)

     

    bromacil/ diuron

    13.5–18 kg/ha

     

    10.8–14.4 kg/ha

    5.4–7.2 kg/ac

     

    PAYLOAD WDG (51.1%)

    + glyphosate (360 g/L)*

     

    flumioxazin

    + glyphosate

    280–420 g/ha

    3.3 L/ha

     

    0.143–0.286 kg/ha

    1.2 kg/ha

    112–168 g/ac

    1.3 L/ac
  • Do NOT apply on soils with > 5% organic matter, or fine textured soils.
  • Do NOT apply to farm alleys or roads where traffic may result in treated dust settling onto crops or other desirable vegetation.
  • Do NOT apply with 100 metres of non-dormant pears.
  • Do NOT make more than two applications per growing season.
  • Apply high rate to medium textured soils.
  • Apply low rate to coarse textured soils.
  • This tank-mix provides residual control only for pigweed spp. common ragweed, lamb’s-quarters, green foxtail, hairy nightshade, dandelion and eastern black nightshade.
    		•

    * See Table 4-1. Herbicides Used in Ontario, page 29 for formulations available. See label for specific uses and rates.

    Chapter 18. Roadsides & Non-Crop Areas continued