Every garden owner knows the problem: no matter how stubborn weeding, the weeds cannot be contained. Reaching for the chemical club is then obvious, because the sprays and powder promise quick and yet ecologically compatible help. In the following article you will learn, among other things, how to use the funds correctly and where the preparations may be applied.

If you have pets that roam freely in the garden, you should definitely avoid using chemical weed killers

What are the advantages and disadvantages of chemical weed killers?

benefits disadvantage
Act quickly and reliably. Pollute the environment.
Mostly bee friendly now. Harmful to aquatic organisms.
Effortless to deploy. Can also be dangerous for children and pets.
Work long-term. May irritate skin and eyes.
Modern products are biodegradable. Can also destroy desired plants, since they do not only affect weeds.
Combination preparations also act as fertilizer. May only be used within the strict framework of the Plant Protection Act.

Which chemical weed killers are there?

The specialist trade has a large number of different products that promise a comprehensive effect. These are available in powder form or liquid. They can be sprinkled according to the dosage indicated on the packaging or dissolved in water and sprayed onto the plant.

Glyphosate, an active ingredient that is almost always present

This preparation is currently on everyone's lips, as it is assumed that its application entails a lasting risk to humans and animals. The agent is found in many weed killers available in Germany. It is called a total herbicide because it reliably kills all plants. The only exceptions to this are genetically modified and therefore resistant crops. The very good effect is based on blocking the production of amino acids.

Lawn weed killer with fertilizer (combined preparations)

Some fertilizers, for example for the lawn, contain effective weed killers. If you want to use them, you should make sure that they are not dangerous to bees. Then you can also use them to treat flowering weeds.

How are the funds spent?

That depends on what product you are deploying. Strictly follow the instructions printed on the packaging. Almost all weed killers should only be applied in dry weather so that the agents do not seep into the soil and unintentionally attack other plants.

The procedure differs depending on whether you are using granules or a spray. Spray liquid preparations rather sparingly, but wet the entire weed plant.

Use weed killer with caution

Section 12 of the Plant Protection Act regulates precisely how chemical weed killers may be used. The herbicides

  • must be allowed
  • must not be used near bodies of water and
  • only be applied to areas used for gardening, agriculture or forestry.

Do not use the spray or powder on paved areas, because the use of chemical agents is strictly prohibited here. Violations will be punished with drastic fines of up to EUR 50,000…

The reason for this is water protection. Weed killers cannot seep sufficiently into the ground on sealed surfaces. They could get into the sewage system and via the water works in the drinking water of the consumers.

What alternatives are there?

The most sustainable way to get rid of weeds permanently is mechanical weeding. Weeds in the cracks of patio tiles can be tackled with a grout scraper or a flame burner.

tips

Please read the warnings printed on the packaging carefully. Some preparations can cause severe eye irritation or allergies if used improperly. If necessary, wear protective goggles and protective gloves.

Category:

Herbs