Plantain weeds, including broadleaf and buckhorn plantain, are common invasive plants that can quickly take over lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. Their deep taproots and ability to thrive in compacted soils make them difficult to control. The best herbicide for plantain must effectively target the weed while minimizing harm to desirable plants and turfgrass.

This guide explores the most effective herbicides for controlling plantain weeds, focusing on their active ingredients, application methods, and suitability for different environments. Whether you are a homeowner, gardener, or farmer, this article will help you choose the right herbicide for plantain control.

Best Herbicides for Plantain Weeds

1. 2,4-D Amine Weed Killer

2,4-D Amine is a selective herbicide that provides effective control of broadleaf weeds, including plantain. Its active ingredient, 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, targets the weed’s growth hormones, causing uncontrolled growth and eventual death. This makes it an excellent choice for lawns and turfgrass.

Apply 2,4-D Amine at a rate of 1-2 pints per acre, depending on the severity of the infestation. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides visible results within 7-14 days. Avoid spraying on windy days to prevent drift onto desirable plants.

Field trials have shown 90% control of plantain weeds with 2,4-D Amine. Its selective action and affordability make it a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers.

2. Triclopyr 4 Herbicide

Triclopyr 4 is a selective herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds, including plantain, while sparing grasses. Its active ingredient, triclopyr, disrupts cell growth in weeds, leading to their demise. This makes it ideal for use in lawns, pastures, and non-crop areas.

Apply Triclopyr 4 at a rate of 1-2 quarts per acre, depending on the weed density. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides visible results within 10-14 days. Use caution near ornamental plants, as Triclopyr can cause damage if not applied carefully.

University trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of plantain weeds with Triclopyr 4. Its effectiveness and selectivity make it a valuable tool for managing plantain in mixed vegetation areas.

3. Glyphosate Herbicide (Roundup Pro Max)

Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide that provides complete control of plantain weeds, including their deep taproots. Its active ingredient, glyphosate, inhibits an enzyme essential for plant growth, leading to the weed’s death. This makes it ideal for spot treatments and non-crop areas.

Apply Glyphosate at a rate of 22-44 fluid ounces per acre, depending on the weed size and density. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and provides visible results within 7-10 days. Use caution near desirable plants, as glyphosate is non-selective and can harm any vegetation it contacts.

Field trials have shown 95% control of plantain weeds with Glyphosate. Its effectiveness and quick action make it a popular choice for large infestations and spot treatments.

4. Dicamba Herbicide

Dicamba is a selective herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds, including plantain, while sparing grasses. Its active ingredient, dicamba, disrupts cell growth in weeds, leading to their demise. This makes it ideal for use in lawns, pastures, and agricultural fields.

Apply Dicamba at a rate of 1-2 pints per acre, depending on the weed density. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides visible results within 7-14 days. Avoid spraying on windy days to prevent drift onto desirable plants.

University trials have demonstrated 90% control of plantain weeds with Dicamba. Its selective action and effectiveness make it a popular choice for managing plantain in lawns and fields.

5. Crossbow Herbicide (Triclopyr + 2,4-D)

Crossbow is a combination herbicide that provides effective control of plantain weeds. Its active ingredients, triclopyr and 2,4-D, target the foliage and root system of plantain, ensuring complete control. This dual-action formula makes it highly effective for large-scale infestations.

Apply Crossbow at a rate of 1-2 quarts per acre, depending on the weed density. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides visible results within 10-14 days. Use caution near desirable plants, as Crossbow can cause damage if not applied carefully.

Field trials have shown 90% control of plantain weeds with Crossbow. Its dual-action formula makes it a popular choice for large-scale infestations, particularly in pastures and non-crop areas.

6. MCPA Herbicide

MCPA is a selective herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds, including plantain, while sparing grasses. Its active ingredient, MCPA, disrupts cell growth in weeds, leading to their demise. This makes it ideal for use in lawns, pastures, and agricultural fields.

Apply MCPA at a rate of 1-2 pints per acre, depending on the weed density. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides visible results within 7-14 days. Avoid spraying on windy days to prevent drift onto desirable plants.

Field trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of plantain weeds with MCPA. Its selective action and affordability make it a popular choice for managing plantain in lawns and fields.

7. Weedmaster Herbicide (Dicamba + 2,4-D)

Weedmaster is a combination herbicide that provides effective control of plantain weeds. Its active ingredients, dicamba and 2,4-D, target the foliage and root system of plantain, ensuring complete control. This dual-action formula makes it highly effective for large-scale infestations.

Apply Weedmaster at a rate of 1-2 quarts per acre, depending on the weed density. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides visible results within 10-14 days. Use caution near desirable plants, as Weedmaster can cause damage if not applied carefully.

University trials have shown 90% control of plantain weeds with Weedmaster. Its dual-action formula makes it a popular choice for large-scale infestations, particularly in pastures and non-crop areas.

8. SpeedZone Herbicide (2,4-D + Mecoprop + Dicamba)

SpeedZone is a combination herbicide that provides fast and effective control of plantain weeds. Its active ingredients, 2,4-D, mecoprop, and dicamba, target the foliage and root system of plantain, ensuring complete control. This makes it ideal for use in lawns and turfgrass.

Apply SpeedZone at a rate of 1-2 pints per acre, depending on the weed density. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides visible results within 7-10 days. Avoid spraying on windy days to prevent drift onto desirable plants.

Field trials have demonstrated 90% control of plantain weeds with SpeedZone. Its fast action and effectiveness make it a popular choice for managing plantain in lawns and turfgrass.

9. Tenacity Herbicide (Mesotrione)

Tenacity is a selective herbicide that provides both pre- and post-emergent control of plantain weeds. Its active ingredient, mesotrione, inhibits photosynthesis in weeds, causing them to turn white and die. This makes it an excellent choice for lawns and turfgrass.

Apply Tenacity at a rate of 0.5-1 fluid ounce per 1,000 sq ft, depending on the weed density. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and provides long-lasting control. Use caution near ornamental plants, as Tenacity can cause damage if not applied carefully.

University trials have shown 85-90% control of plantain weeds with Tenacity. Its dual-action formula and low use rate make it a valuable tool for managing plantain in lawns and turfgrass.

10. Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer

Ortho Weed B Gon is a selective herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds, including plantain, while sparing grasses. Its active ingredients, triclopyr and MCPA, disrupt cell growth in weeds, leading to their demise. This makes it ideal for use in lawns and turfgrass.

Apply Ortho Weed B Gon at a rate of 1-2 pints per acre, depending on the weed density. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides visible results within 7-14 days. Avoid spraying on windy days to prevent drift onto desirable plants.

Field trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of plantain weeds with Ortho Weed B Gon. Its selective action and affordability make it a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers.

Buyer’s Tips for Plantain Herbicides

Identify the Weed
Ensure the weed is correctly identified as plantain before selecting an herbicide.

Choose the Right Herbicide
Select an herbicide based on the application site – lawn, pasture, or non-crop area.

Use Proper Adjuvants
Add a non-ionic surfactant to herbicide sprays for better leaf absorption.

Follow Label Rates
Measure the herbicide carefully – over-application can harm desirable plants.

Consider Soil Residual
Choose an herbicide with soil residual activity for long-term control.

Rotate Modes of Action
Alternate herbicide chemistry to prevent resistance development.

Monitor for Regrowth
Follow up with additional herbicide applications if regrowth occurs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the best herbicide for plantain weeds depends on the specific environment and the severity of the infestation. For lawns and turfgrass, 2,4-D Amine and Triclopyr 4 are excellent choices due to their selective action and effectiveness. For non-crop areas and spot treatments, Glyphosate and Crossbow provide complete control of plantain, including their deep taproots.

By using the right herbicide and following proper application guidelines, you can effectively manage plantain weeds and maintain a healthy, weed-free landscape.