Everything You Need to Know About Herbicides

Date Published : 29 March 2025

by Mankind Agritech

At Mankind Agritech, we know how weeds can turn a thriving field or a beautiful garden into a battleground. Our journey in agricultural innovation has taught us one thing: effective weed control is key to success. That’s why we’re excited to bring to you this comprehensive guide on herbicides—covering what is herbicide, how herbicides work, what is herbicide used for, the advantages of herbicides, different types of herbicides, their use of herbicides, and even how to dispose of old herbicides. Whether you’re a farmer protecting your crops or a homeowner maintaining your lawn, this blog is your go-to resource. In addition to that, we will highlight some of our top herbicide products available at mankindag.com to help you tackle weeds like a pro.

Let’s get started!

What Is A Herbicide?

A herbicide is a chemical / biological substance designed to eliminate unwanted plants commonly referred to as weeds. These intruders compete with crop plants for sunlight, water, and nutrients to survive, which endangers the yield or appeal of crops and ornamental plants. The primary purpose of herbicides is to target weeds with precise killing efficiency that is not achievable using manual techniques like pulling, hoeing, etc. Herbicides come in liquid, granules, or powder forms that can be sprayed, sprinkled, or directly applied on the soil or plants.

As leaders in agricultural solutions, we at Mankind Agritech formulates herbicides to meet diverse needs, ensuring you have the right weapon to win the weed war.

How Herbicides Work?

So how do herbicides work? After years of research, we have perfected the science behind herbicides. They rely on specific plant processes such as photosynthesis, cell division, or hormone stimulation because those processes do not harm animals or humans. When used properly, they are effective and peacefully applicable if used in specific guidelines.

We classify these types based on the method of action to:

  1. 1. Systemic Herbicides: These are absorbed by a plant through leaves, stems, or roots, and the herbicides move throughout the system of the plant, killing the plant from the inside out. Systemic herbicides are ideal for deep rooted and stubborn weeds, of which Glyphosate 41% SL, Metsulfuron Methyl 20 WG, Atrazine 50% WP, Pretilachlor 6% + Oxadiargyl 1% GR are some of the examples. It provides complete control of persistent invaders’ plants.
  2. 2. Contact Herbicides: This type of herbicide destroys vast areas meticulously and instantly. They are ideal for annual weeds, although post treatment will probably be required for the more persistent types.

Some of our herbicides such as 2,4-D Amine Salt 58% SL are phytohormonal herbicides that control uncontrolled growth leading to weed senescence. While some targets and destroys essential growth enzymes, completely stopping the weed. This cutting edge technology powers Mankind Agritech’s products which ensures effective weed control.

What are Herbicides Used For?

At Mankind Agritech, we see Herbicides as tools for empowerment, which allow one to take control over their land. Some of the areas where herbicides are commonly used:

  • Agriculture: Protects crops from nutrition stealing weeds and improves yield for farmers nationwide.
  • Landscaping: Keep lawns, gardens, and pathways pristine free from weeds for homeowners and professionals.
  • Forestry: Ward off competing vegetation to help young trees thrive
  • Industrial Areas: Maintain safety and accessibility along roadsides, railways, and utility lines.

Mankind Agritech’s Herbicides range includes chemical like 2,4-D Amine Salt 58% SL, 2,4-D Ethyl Ester 38% EC, 2,4-D Sodium Salt 80% WP, Atrazine 50% WP, Bispyribac Sodium 10% SC, Glyphosate 41% SL, Imazethapyr 10% SL, Imazethapyr 70% WG, Paraquat Dichloride 24% SL, Pendimethalin 30% EC, Pretilachlor 37% EW & Quizalofop Ethyl 10% EC which is designed to tackle challenges head-on and ensure weeds don’t hinder the growth of plants.

Advantages of Herbicides

Why choose herbicides? Mankind Agritech’s Herbicides offer numerous advantages making it a cornerstone in the market:

  1. 1. Time-Saving: Herbicides drastically cut weed control time from hours to minutes compared to manual methods.
  2. 2. Targeted Action: Selective Herbicide like Atrazine 50% WP kills weeds without harming your crops, offering unmatched precision.
  3. 3. Cost Efficiency: It significantly benefits the large-scale operations, by low labor and equipment costs
  4. 4. Higher Yields: Eliminating weed competition helps crops grow to their full potential.
  5. 5. Soil Preservation: Herbicides support no-till farming, reduce erosion and maintain soil health.

We’ve heard from farmers who’ve transformed their fields with Mankind Agritech’s Glyphosate 41% SL, and we’re proud to be part of their success stories.

Type of Herbicide

At Mankind Agritech, we understand one single solution doesn’t work for varied needs. That’s why we offer diverse range of herbicides tailored for your specific requirement:

  1. 1. Selective Herbicides

    This precision tool targets specific weeds while sparing crops or grass unharmed. Mankind Agritech’s – 2,4-D Amine Salt 58% SL, 2,4-D Ethyl Ester 38% EC and 2,4-D Sodium Salt 80% WP are highly effective against broadleaf weeds in wheat and rice fields.

  2. 2. Non-Selective Herbicides

    This works as a total weed eliminator, making it ideal for land preparation. Non-selective herbicides effectively clear the slate. Mankind Agritech’s Glyphosate 41% SL is a prime example which is a go-to product for non-crop areas or land preparation.

  3. 3. Pre-Emergent Herbicides

    This prevents weed growth in the initial stage itself. Pre-emergent herbicides like Pendimethalin 30% EC and Pretilachlor 37% EW stop weeds before they sprout, giving your crops a head start.

  4. 4. Post-Emergent Herbicides

    This prevents weeds growth that have already emerged. Atrazine 50% WP is an excellent option for controlling the weeds in crops like maize and sugarcane.

    At Mankind Agritech, we provide tailored solutions for every weed challenge.

How to use Herbicides?

The use of herbicides is central in agriculture and land management. Here’s how Mankind Agritech’s products are applied:

  • Crop Protection: Pendimethalin 30% EC is used before planting and sets the field, while 2,4-D Amine Salt 58% SL controls weeds later in the season.
  • Lawn Maintenance: Selective herbicides keep your field weed-free.
  • Land Clearing: Glyphosate 41% SL helps in preparing bare land by clearing unwanted vegetation in non-crop zones.
  • Specialty Crops: Atrazine 50% WP protects maize and sugarcane, from invasive weeds.

Farmers and landscapers trust Mankind Agritech’s herbicides for its effective results, and reliability.

How to Dispose of Old Herbicide?

At Mankind Agritech sustainability is an integral part. Here is how you can dispose of old herbicides safely:

  1. 1. Read the Label: Follow the disposal instructions included in the product labels.
  2. 2. Use It Up: As intended, apply the leftover herbicide to prevent wastage.
  3. 3. Store Securely: Always keep the products in their original, sealed containers away from kids and pets until disposed of.
  4. 4. Locate a Drop-Off: Check with your local waste authority for hazardous waste collection events.
  5. 5. Avoid Drains: Never dump herbicides down sinks or drain which can lead to water contamination.
  6. 6. Rinse and Recycle: Always triple-rinse the empty containers, use the rinse water in a sprayer, then recycle or discard as per hazardous waste disposal rules.

Mankind Agritech’s product packaging is designed for safety, but your responsible disposal ensures a healthier environment.

Discover Mankind Agritech’s Herbicide Lineup

At Mankind Agritech, we are proud to offer herbicides that combine efficacy with innovation:

  • Glyphosate 41% SL: A non-selective, systemic herbicide for total weed control in non-crop areas.
  • Pendimethalin 30% EC: A pre-emergent solution for crops like Soyabean, Cotton, and Wheat.
  • Atrazine 50% WP: A selective, post-emergent herbicide for maize and sugarcane.
  • 2,4-D Amine Salt 58% SL: A selective herbicide ideal for controlling broadleaf weeds in cereals crops and pastures.

Mankind Agritech products reflect our commitment to empower farmers with reliable solutions and effective control tools because your success is our success.

Wrapping Up

Herbicides are more than just weed killers they are essential tool of Integrated Pest Management. At Mankind Agritech, our product range is committed to help you cultivate healthier crops, maintain lush green fields and eliminate unwanted plants growth. From understanding what herbicides are and how herbicides work to exploring herbicides use, advantages, and types, we hope this guide has provided you with knowledge and insight to fight weeds effectively. And with our tips on safe herbicide disposal , you can manage the waste responsibly.

Ready to take control? Visit mankindag.com to explore our herbicide range. Did you achieve great results using Mankind Agritech products? Share your success story with us at contactus@mankindag.com ; we would like to broadcast it on our social media platforms.

FAQs

Q1. Are herbicides safe for the environment?

Ans: Herbicides are formulated to target weeds efficiently while minimizing environmental impact. Understanding how herbicides work helps in applying them responsibly. Selective type of herbicide minimizes harm to non-target plants, and proper application ensures soil and water safety. Always follow label guidelines for eco-friendly use of herbicides.

Q2. Can I use herbicides in my home garden?

Ans: Yes, herbicides can help maintain a weed-free garden. Knowing what is herbicide used for ensures you choose the right product. For lawns, selective herbicides target weeds while preserving grass. Always follow application guidelines for effective and safe use of herbicides in home gardens.

Q3. How does using herbicides impact the soil?

Ans: The advantages of herbicides include preserving soil nutrients by reducing weed competition. Some herbicides break down naturally, while others persist longer. Understanding how to dispose of old herbicide ensures soil safety, and using pre-emergent herbicides prevents unwanted plant growth without harming soil health.

Q4. What is the best time to apply herbicides?

Ans: The timing depends on the type of herbicide—pre-emergent herbicides work best before weeds sprout, while post-emergent ones are applied after weed growth. Knowing what is herbicide and how herbicides work ensures maximum effectiveness. Apply during dry, calm weather for the best results.

Q5. Can herbicides kill grass along with weeds?

Ans: Yes, non-selective herbicides eliminate all plants, including grass. However, selective herbicides allow targeted use of herbicides, preserving lawns while controlling weeds. Understanding what is herbicide used for and selecting the right type ensures grass remains healthy while weeds are effectively controlled.