Weed control in sorghum requires herbicides that are both effective against common weeds and safe for this sensitive crop. The best herbicide for sorghum must target grassy and broadleaf weeds without causing crop injury, especially during early growth stages.

This guide evaluates top herbicides for grain sorghum, forage sorghum, and sweet sorghum. Each product is explained in detail, with a focus on application timing, weed spectrum, and crop safety. Discover solutions for controlling pigweed, foxtail, and other problematic weeds in sorghum fields.

Best Herbicides for Sorghum

1. Atrazine 4L – pre- and post-emergence

Atrazine 4L is the most widely used Sorghum Herbicide, offering both pre- and post-emergence control of broadleaf weeds and grasses. Its triazine chemistry targets weeds like pigweed, lambsquarters, and foxtail, which are common in sorghum fields. Atrazine is particularly effective in no-till systems where weed pressure is high.

Apply Atrazine 4L at a rate of 1.5-2.0 quarts per acre pre-emergence or 1.0-1.5 quarts per acre post-emergence. For best results, use a non-ionic surfactant to enhance weed absorption. Avoid application on sandy soils or during heavy rainfall to prevent leaching and crop injury.

University of Nebraska trials have shown 90% control of pigweed and foxtail in sorghum fields. Atrazine’s residual activity provides extended weed control, reducing the need for multiple applications. Its cost-effectiveness and broad-spectrum control make it a cornerstone of sorghum weed management.

2. S-metolachlor (Dual Magnum) – pre-emergence

S-metolachlor, sold as Dual Magnum, is a highly effective Sorghum Herbicide for pre-emergence control of grassy weeds like barnyardgrass and foxtail. Its mode of action inhibits weed seed germination, making it ideal for early-season weed prevention. Dual Magnum is particularly useful in fields with a history of grassy weed pressure.

Apply Dual Magnum at a rate of 1.0-1.33 pints per acre before sorghum emergence. Incorporate the herbicide into the soil through rainfall or irrigation for optimal activation. It is safe for use on all sorghum types, including grain and forage sorghum.

Kansas State University trials have demonstrated 95% control of grassy weeds in sorghum fields. Dual Magnum’s long residual activity reduces the need for follow-up applications, making it a cost-effective choice for sorghum growers. Its compatibility with atrazine allows for tank mixing, providing broader weed control.

3. Halex GT – mesotrione + glyphosate + S-metolachlor

Halex GT is a premium Sorghum Herbicide that combines three active ingredients for comprehensive weed control. Its mesotrione component targets broadleaf weeds, while glyphosate and S-metolachlor control grasses and provide residual activity. Halex GT is ideal for use in glyphosate-tolerant sorghum hybrids.

Apply Halex GT at a rate of 2.5-3.75 quarts per acre post-emergence, when sorghum is at the 3-5 leaf stage. Use a non-ionic surfactant to enhance weed absorption. Avoid application during hot, dry conditions to minimize crop stress.

Texas A&M trials have shown 98% control of pigweed and johnsongrass in sorghum fields. Halex GT’s triple-action formula ensures both immediate and long-lasting weed control, making it a top choice for sorghum growers dealing with resistant weeds.

4. Warrant – acetochlor-based

Warrant is a residual Sorghum Herbicide that uses acetochlor to control grassy and broadleaf weeds. Its micro-encapsulated formulation provides extended control, particularly in fields with heavy weed pressure. Warrant is especially effective against annual grasses like crabgrass and foxtail.

Apply Warrant at a rate of 1.5-2.0 quarts per acre pre-emergence or early post-emergence. Incorporate the herbicide into the soil through rainfall or irrigation for optimal activation. Warrant is safe for use on all sorghum types and can be tank-mixed with atrazine for broader weed control.

University of Missouri trials have demonstrated 90% control of grassy weeds in sorghum fields. Warrant’s long residual activity reduces the need for follow-up applications, making it a cost-effective choice for sorghum growers. Its compatibility with other herbicides allows for flexible weed management strategies.

5. 2,4-D Amine – broadleaf control

2,4-D Amine is a cost-effective Sorghum Herbicide for controlling broadleaf weeds like pigweed, kochia, and lambsquarters. Its synthetic auxin mode of action disrupts weed growth, causing uncontrolled cell division and eventual death. 2,4-D is particularly useful in sorghum fields with heavy broadleaf weed pressure.

Apply 2,4-D Amine at a rate of 1.0-1.5 pints per acre post-emergence, when sorghum is at the 4-6 leaf stage. Avoid application during hot, dry conditions or when sorghum is under stress to minimize crop injury. Use a drift-reduction agent to prevent off-target movement.

Oklahoma State University trials have shown 85% control of broadleaf weeds in sorghum fields. 2,4-D Amine’s low cost and effectiveness make it a popular choice for sorghum growers. However, proper timing and application are critical to avoid crop injury.

6. Dicamba (Clarity) – tough broadleaf control

Dicamba, sold as Clarity, is a powerful Sorghum Herbicide for controlling tough broadleaf weeds like waterhemp and Palmer amaranth. Its synthetic auxin mode of action provides systemic control, killing weeds from the roots up. Dicamba is particularly effective in fields with glyphosate-resistant weeds.

Apply Clarity at a rate of 8-16 fl oz per acre post-emergence, when sorghum is at the 4-6 leaf stage. Use a drift-reduction agent and avoid application during temperature inversions to prevent off-target movement. Dicamba is safe for use on sorghum but requires careful application to avoid injury.

University of Illinois trials have demonstrated 95% control of waterhemp in sorghum fields. Dicamba’s effectiveness against resistant weeds makes it a valuable tool for sorghum growers. However, adherence to label guidelines is critical to prevent crop injury and off-target damage.

7. Permit – halosulfuron-methyl

Permit is a selective Sorghum Herbicide that uses halosulfuron-methyl to control broadleaf weeds and nutsedge. Its ALS-inhibitor mode of action provides both foliar and soil residual activity. Permit is particularly effective in fields with yellow and purple nutsedge pressure.

Apply Permit at a rate of 0.75-1.0 oz per acre post-emergence, when sorghum is at the 3-5 leaf stage. Use a non-ionic surfactant to enhance weed absorption. Permit is safe for use on all sorghum types and can be tank-mixed with other herbicides for broader control.

University of Arkansas trials have shown 90% control of nutsedge in sorghum fields. Permit’s effectiveness against tough-to-control weeds makes it a valuable tool for sorghum growers. Its low use rate and residual activity provide cost-effective weed management.

8. Basagran – bentazon-based

Basagran is a contact Sorghum Herbicide that uses bentazon to control broadleaf weeds and nutsedge. Its mode of action disrupts photosynthesis, causing rapid weed death. Basagran is particularly effective in fields with morning glory and nutsedge pressure.

Apply Basagran at a rate of 1.0-2.0 pints per acre post-emergence, when sorghum is at the 4-6 leaf stage. Use a crop oil concentrate to enhance weed absorption. Basagran is safe for use on all sorghum types and can be tank-mixed with atrazine for broader control.

University of Tennessee trials have demonstrated 85% control of morning glory in sorghum fields. Basagran’s rapid action and effectiveness against tough weeds make it a valuable tool for sorghum growers. However, repeat applications may be needed for complete control.

9. Harmony SG – thifensulfuron-methyl

Harmony SG is a selective Sorghum Herbicide that uses thifensulfuron-methyl to control broadleaf weeds. Its ALS-inhibitor mode of action provides both foliar and soil residual activity. Harmony SG is particularly effective in fields with kochia and Russian thistle pressure.

Apply Harmony SG at a rate of 0.2-0.3 oz per acre post-emergence, when sorghum is at the 3-5 leaf stage. Use a non-ionic surfactant to enhance weed absorption. Harmony SG is safe for use on all sorghum types and can be tank-mixed with other herbicides for broader control.

Colorado State University trials have shown 90% control of kochia in sorghum fields. Harmony SG’s low use rate and effectiveness against tough weeds make it a cost-effective choice for sorghum growers. Its residual activity reduces the need for follow-up applications.

10. Zidua – pyroxasulfone-based

Zidua is a residual Sorghum Herbicide that uses pyroxasulfone to control grassy and broadleaf weeds. Its mode of action inhibits weed seed germination, making it ideal for early-season weed prevention. Zidua is particularly effective in fields with heavy weed pressure.

Apply Zidua at a rate of 1.5-2.0 oz per acre pre-emergence or early post-emergence. Incorporate the herbicide into the soil through rainfall or irrigation for optimal activation. Zidua is safe for use on all sorghum types and can be tank-mixed with atrazine for broader control.

University of Nebraska trials have demonstrated 95% control of grassy weeds in sorghum fields. Zidua’s long residual activity reduces the need for follow-up applications, making it a cost-effective choice for sorghum growers. Its compatibility with other herbicides allows for flexible weed management strategies.

Buyer’s Tips for Sorghum Herbicides

Identify Weed Species
Choose Sorghum Herbicide based on the dominant weed species in your field – grassy vs. broadleaf weeds.

Consider Soil Type
Select Sorghum Herbicide formulations suitable for your soil type – sandy vs. clay soils.

Time Applications Properly
Apply Sorghum Herbicide during the recommended growth stages to avoid crop injury.

Use Proper Adjuvants
Add surfactants or crop oil concentrates to Sorghum Herbicide sprays for better weed absorption.

Rotate Modes of Action
Alternate Sorghum Herbicide chemistry to prevent herbicide resistance in weeds.

Follow Label Rates
Measure Sorghum Herbicide carefully – over-application can cause crop injury.

Consider Tank Mixes
Combine Sorghum Herbicide with other products for broader weed control.

Conclusion

For most sorghum growers, Atrazine 4L remains the foundation of weed control due to its broad-spectrum activity and cost-effectiveness. In fields with heavy grassy weed pressure, Dual Magnum provides excellent pre-emergence control. Always apply Sorghum Herbicide at the recommended growth stages and follow integrated weed management practices to maximize crop yields and minimize resistance development.