Sugarcane farming in Kenya faces significant challenges from weeds, which compete for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Effective weed control is essential to maximize yields and ensure healthy crop growth. The best herbicide for sugarcane in Kenya must target both grassy and broadleaf weeds while being safe for the crop.

This guide highlights the top herbicides used in Kenyan sugarcane farming, focusing on their application methods, effectiveness, and suitability for local conditions. Discover solutions for controlling weeds like couch grass, pigweed, and blackjack in sugarcane fields.

Best Herbicides for Sugarcane in Kenya

1. Atrazine 500 SC

Atrazine 500 SC is a widely used pre- and post-emergence herbicide in Kenyan sugarcane farming. It effectively controls broadleaf weeds and grasses, making it a cornerstone of weed management programs.

Apply Atrazine 500 SC at a rate of 2-3 liters per hectare, either before planting or during early crop growth stages. Use a knapsack sprayer for even coverage. Avoid application on sandy soils or during heavy rainfall to prevent leaching.

Field trials in Kenya have shown 90% control of weeds like pigweed and blackjack. Atrazine’s residual activity reduces the need for multiple applications, making it cost-effective for sugarcane farmers.

2. Glyphosate (Roundup)

Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide used for pre-planting weed control in sugarcane fields. It is particularly effective against perennial weeds like couch grass.

Apply Glyphosate at a rate of 3-4 liters per hectare, ensuring thorough coverage of the foliage. Allow 7-10 days before planting sugarcane to avoid crop injury. Use a surfactant to enhance absorption.

Kenyan sugarcane farmers report 95% control of couch grass with Glyphosate. Its systemic action ensures complete weed eradication, providing a clean seedbed for planting.

3. 2,4-D Amine

2,4-D Amine is a selective herbicide used for post-emergence control of broadleaf weeds in sugarcane fields. It is particularly effective against weeds like blackjack and pigweed.

Apply 2,4-D Amine at a rate of 1-2 liters per hectare, using a knapsack sprayer for even coverage. Avoid application during hot, dry conditions to minimize crop stress.

Field trials in western Kenya have demonstrated 85% control of broadleaf weeds with 2,4-D Amine. Its affordability and effectiveness make it a popular choice among sugarcane farmers.

4. Metribuzin (Sencor)

Metribuzin is a pre- and post-emergence herbicide that controls both grassy and broadleaf weeds in sugarcane fields. It is particularly effective in fields with mixed weed populations.

Apply Metribuzin at a rate of 1-1.5 kilograms per hectare, either before planting or during early crop growth stages. Use a knapsack sprayer for even coverage. Avoid application on sandy soils.

Field trials in Kenya have shown 90% control of weeds like couch grass and pigweed. Metribuzin’s residual activity reduces the need for follow-up applications, making it cost-effective.

5. Diuron (Karmex)

Diuron is a pre-emergence herbicide that provides residual control of weeds in sugarcane fields. It is particularly effective against annual grasses and broadleaf weeds.

Apply Diuron at a rate of 2-3 kilograms per hectare before planting sugarcane. Use a knapsack sprayer for even coverage. Avoid application on sandy soils or during heavy rainfall.

Field trials in Kenya have demonstrated 85% control of weeds like blackjack and pigweed. Diuron’s long residual activity makes it a valuable tool for weed management in sugarcane farming.

Buyer’s Tips for Sugarcane Herbicides in Kenya

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

Consider Soil Type
Select herbicides suitable for your soil type – sandy vs. clay soils.

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

Use Proper Adjuvants
Add surfactants or crop oil concentrates to herbicide sprays for better absorption.

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

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

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

Conclusion

For most sugarcane farmers in Kenya, Atrazine 500 SC remains the foundation of weed control due to its broad-spectrum activity and cost-effectiveness. Glyphosate is ideal for pre-planting weed control, while 2,4-D Amine provides effective post-emergence control of broadleaf weeds. Always apply herbicides at the recommended growth stages and follow integrated weed management practices to maximize yields and minimize resistance development.