Prickly pear cactus, while native to some regions, can become invasive and problematic in areas where it outcompetes native vegetation. Its rapid growth and ability to spread through seeds and vegetative reproduction make it a challenging plant to control. The best herbicide for prickly pear cactus must effectively target the plant while minimizing harm to surrounding ecosystems.

This guide explores the most effective herbicides for controlling prickly pear cactus, focusing on their active ingredients, application methods, and suitability for different environments. Whether you are a land manager, rancher, or homeowner, this article will help you choose the right herbicide for prickly pear cactus control.

Best Herbicides for Prickly Pear Cactus

1. Tordon 22K – Picloram Herbicide

Tordon 22K is a highly effective herbicide containing picloram, which is specifically designed to control tough woody plants and invasive species like prickly pear cactus. Picloram works by mimicking plant hormones, causing uncontrolled growth and eventual death of the plant. It is particularly effective when applied to the foliage or injected into the cactus pads.

Apply Tordon 22K at a rate of 1-2 pints per acre, ensuring thorough coverage of the cactus pads. The herbicide is rainfast within 2 hours and provides long-lasting control. Tordon 22K is ideal for use in rangelands and non-crop areas where prickly pear cactus has become invasive.

Field trials have shown 90-95% control of prickly pear cactus with Tordon 22K. Its effectiveness and residual activity make it a top choice for large-scale cactus management.

2. GrazonNext HL – Aminopyralid + 2,4-D Herbicide

GrazonNext HL is a combination herbicide containing aminopyralid and 2,4-D, which provides effective control of prickly pear cactus. The dual-action formula targets both the foliage and root system of the cactus, ensuring complete control. It is particularly useful in rangelands and pastures where prickly pear cactus competes with desirable forage plants.

Apply GrazonNext HL at a rate of 1.2-2.1 pints per acre during the active growth stage of the cactus. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. GrazonNext HL is safe for use around many grasses, making it a popular choice for ranchers and land managers.

University trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of prickly pear cactus with GrazonNext HL. Its dual-action formula and effectiveness make it a reliable option for managing invasive cactus.

3. Surmount – Picloram + Fluroxypyr Herbicide

Surmount is a combination herbicide containing picloram and fluroxypyr, which provides excellent control of prickly pear cactus. The dual-action formula targets both the foliage and root system, ensuring complete control. Surmount is particularly effective in rangelands and non-crop areas.

Apply Surmount at a rate of 3-4 pints per acre during the active growth stage of the cactus. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides long-lasting control. Surmount is ideal for use in areas where prickly pear cactus has become heavily established.

Field trials have shown 90-95% control of prickly pear cactus with Surmount. Its dual-action formula and effectiveness make it a powerful tool for managing persistent infestations.

4. Remedy Ultra – Triclopyr Herbicide

Remedy Ultra is a selective herbicide containing triclopyr, which is effective against prickly pear cactus. Triclopyr works by mimicking natural plant hormones, causing uncontrolled growth and eventual death of the plant. It is particularly useful in mixed vegetation areas where preserving desirable plants is a priority.

Apply Remedy Ultra at a rate of 1-2 quarts per acre during the active growth stage of the cactus. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides long-lasting control. Remedy Ultra is safe for use around many grasses, making it a popular choice for ranchers and land managers.

Field trials have demonstrated 80-85% control of prickly pear cactus with Remedy Ultra. Its selective action and effectiveness make it a reliable option for managing invasive cactus.

5. Milestone – Aminopyralid Herbicide

Milestone is a selective herbicide containing aminopyralid, which is highly effective against prickly pear cactus. Aminopyralid works by inhibiting the production of essential amino acids, causing the plant to die. It is particularly effective in rangelands and pastures where prickly pear cactus competes with desirable forage plants.

Apply Milestone at a rate of 4-7 fluid ounces per acre during the active growth stage of the cactus. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Milestone is safe for use around many grasses, making it a popular choice for ranchers and land managers.

University trials have shown 85-90% control of prickly pear cactus with Milestone. Its selective action and effectiveness make it a valuable tool for managing invasive cactus.

6. Reclaim II – Triclopyr + 2,4-D Herbicide

Reclaim II is a combination herbicide containing triclopyr and 2,4-D, which provides effective control of prickly pear cactus. The dual-action formula targets both the foliage and root system of the cactus, ensuring complete control. It is particularly useful in rangelands and non-crop areas.

Apply Reclaim II at a rate of 1-2 quarts per acre during the active growth stage of the cactus. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides long-lasting control. Reclaim II is ideal for use in areas where prickly pear cactus has become heavily established.

Field trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of prickly pear cactus with Reclaim II. Its dual-action formula and effectiveness make it a reliable option for managing invasive cactus.

7. PastureGard HL – Triclopyr + Fluroxypyr Herbicide

PastureGard HL is a combination herbicide containing triclopyr and fluroxypyr, which provides excellent control of prickly pear cactus. The dual-action formula targets both the foliage and root system, ensuring complete control. PastureGard HL is particularly effective in rangelands and pastures.

Apply PastureGard HL at a rate of 1.5-2.5 pints per acre during the active growth stage of the cactus. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides long-lasting control. PastureGard HL is safe for use around many grasses, making it a popular choice for ranchers and land managers.

Field trials have shown 85-90% control of prickly pear cactus with PastureGard HL. Its dual-action formula and effectiveness make it a powerful tool for managing invasive cactus.

8. Cimarron Plus – Metsulfuron Methyl + Dicamba + 2,4-D Herbicide

Cimarron Plus is a combination herbicide containing metsulfuron methyl, dicamba, and 2,4-D, which provides effective control of prickly pear cactus. The triple-action formula targets multiple pathways in the plant, ensuring complete control. It is particularly useful in rangelands and non-crop areas.

Apply Cimarron Plus at a rate of 0.5-1 ounce per acre during the active growth stage of the cactus. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Cimarron Plus is ideal for use in areas where prickly pear cactus has become heavily established.

Field trials have demonstrated 90-95% control of prickly pear cactus with Cimarron Plus. Its triple-action formula and effectiveness make it a powerful tool for managing persistent infestations.

9. Velpar L – Hexazinone Herbicide

Velpar L is a selective herbicide containing hexazinone, which is effective against prickly pear cactus. Hexazinone works by inhibiting photosynthesis, causing the plant to wither and die. It is particularly useful in non-crop areas where prickly pear cactus has become invasive.

Apply Velpar L at a rate of 2-4 quarts per acre during the active growth stage of the cactus. The herbicide is rainfast within 6 hours and provides long-lasting control. Velpar L is ideal for use in areas where prickly pear cactus has become heavily established.

Field trials have shown 80-85% control of prickly pear cactus with Velpar L. Its selective action and effectiveness make it a reliable option for managing invasive cactus.

10. Plateau – Imazapic Herbicide

Plateau is a selective herbicide containing imazapic, which is highly effective against prickly pear cactus. Imazapic works by inhibiting the production of essential amino acids, causing the plant to die. It is particularly effective in rangelands and non-crop areas.

Apply Plateau at a rate of 4-12 fluid ounces per acre during the active growth stage of the cactus. The herbicide is rainfast within 4 hours and provides long-lasting control. Plateau is safe for use around many grasses, making it a popular choice for ranchers and land managers.

University trials have demonstrated 85-90% control of prickly pear cactus with Plateau. Its selective action and effectiveness make it a valuable tool for managing invasive cactus.

Buyer’s Tips for Prickly Pear Cactus Herbicides

Timing is Critical
Apply herbicides during the active growth stage of prickly pear cactus for the best results.

Choose the Right Herbicide
Select a herbicide based on the environment – rangelands, pastures, or non-crop areas.

Use Proper Adjuvants
Add surfactants or dyes to herbicide sprays to improve coverage and ensure accurate application.

Follow Label Rates
Measure herbicides carefully to avoid over-application, which can harm non-target plants and ecosystems.

Monitor for Regrowth
Follow up with additional herbicide applications if regrowth occurs to ensure complete control.

Consider Environmental Impact
Choose herbicides with low environmental impact, especially in sensitive ecosystems like rangelands.

Rotate Herbicides
Alternate herbicides with different modes of action to prevent resistance development in prickly pear cactus.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the best herbicide for prickly pear cactus is essential for effectively managing this invasive species and restoring native ecosystems. Based on performance, environmental safety, and ease of use, the best overall herbicide is Tordon 22K (picloram). Its effectiveness in targeting the root system and long-lasting residual activity make it a top choice for large-scale cactus control.

For mixed vegetation areas, GrazonNext HL (aminopyralid + 2,4-D) is an excellent alternative due to its selective action and low impact on desirable grasses. Combination herbicides, such as Surmount (picloram + fluroxypyr), offer enhanced control for persistent infestations.

By using the right herbicide and following proper application guidelines, you can effectively manage prickly pear cactus and protect the health of your local ecosystems.