Finding the best surfactant for glyphosate can be the game-changer in achieving powerful, long-lasting weed control. I’ve tested and researched some of the most effective options, and the difference they make is undeniable. Without the right surfactant, glyphosate might struggle to penetrate stubborn plant surfaces, reducing its effectiveness.

But with the right one, the herbicide spreads evenly, sticks better, and absorbs deeply—ensuring total weed eradication.I’ve come across various types, from non-ionic surfactants that improve coverage to methylated seed oils (MSOs) that break through even the toughest plant cuticles.

Some work best in extreme weather, while others are designed for precision applications. Whether you’re tackling invasive weeds on a farm or maintaining a pristine lawn, choosing the right surfactant can significantly boost glyphosate’s performance.

In this guide, I’ll discuss the top 10 surfactants that pair perfectly with glyphosate. Each enhances absorption, improves rain fastness, and ensures your herbicide works at maximum efficiency. Let’s dive in and find the best surfactant to supercharge your glyphosate application!

10 Best Surfactant For Glyphosate

1. Southern Ag Surfactant for Herbicides – Non-Ionic Surfactant for Glyphosate

Southern Ag Surfactant for Herbicides is a non-ionic surfactant specifically designed to improve the effectiveness of glyphosate applications. By reducing the surface tension of the spray solution, it ensures better coverage and absorption on plant surfaces. This surfactant is compatible with most herbicides, making it a versatile choice for various weed control scenarios.​

When mixed with glyphosate, Southern Ag Surfactant enhances the herbicide’s ability to penetrate the waxy cuticle of leaves, leading to more efficient weed control. Its non-ionic nature means it does not carry a charge, reducing the risk of adverse reactions with other chemicals in the spray solution. This property ensures that the glyphosate remains effective throughout the application process.​

Users have reported that incorporating this surfactant into their glyphosate mixtures results in faster and more consistent weed kill. Its cost-effectiveness and ease of use make it a popular choice among both professionals and homeowners. Additionally, its low toxicity profile ensures safety for users and the environment when used as directed.​

Pros:

• Enhances glyphosate efficacy​

• Compatible with various herbicides​

• Reduces surface tension​

• Non-ionic formulation​

• Cost-effective​

• Easy to mix

• Low toxicity​

Cons:

• Not suitable for all plants​

• Requires precise mixing​

• May need reapplication​

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2. Hi-Yield Spreader Sticker – Surfactant for Glyphosate Herbicides

Hi-Yield Spreader Sticker is formulated to improve the performance of glyphosate herbicides by ensuring even distribution and adherence to plant surfaces. This surfactant enhances the wetting and spreading properties of the spray solution, allowing for better contact with target weeds. Its versatility makes it suitable for use with various herbicides and insecticides.​

By incorporating Hi-Yield Spreader Sticker into glyphosate applications, users can achieve more uniform coverage, leading to more effective weed control. The surfactant’s ability to reduce runoff ensures that more of the herbicide remains on the plant, increasing its absorption and efficacy. This results in a more efficient use of glyphosate, potentially reducing the need for multiple applications.​

Users appreciate the improved performance of their glyphosate treatments when using this surfactant. Its ease of use and compatibility with a wide range of products make it a valuable addition to any weed management program. However, it is essential to follow label directions carefully to avoid potential phytotoxicity on sensitive plants.​

Pros:

• Improves glyphosate coverage​

• Enhances herbicide adhesion​

• Compatible with many products​

• Reduces runoff​

• Cost-effective​

• Easy to use​

• Improves absorption​

Cons:

• Potential phytotoxicity​

• Not suitable for all plants​

• Requires careful mixing​

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3. Bonide Turbo Spreader Sticker – Glyphosate Surfactant for Improved Coverage

Bonide Turbo Spreader Sticker is designed to enhance the performance of glyphosate herbicides by improving their spreading and sticking properties. This non-ionic surfactant ensures that the herbicide solution covers plant surfaces more uniformly, leading to better weed control. Its formulation allows for use with a wide range of pesticides, making it a versatile addition to any application.​

When added to glyphosate, Bonide Turbo Spreader Sticker reduces the surface tension of the spray solution, allowing it to spread more evenly across leaf surfaces. This improved coverage ensures that more of the herbicide comes into contact with the target weeds, increasing its effectiveness. Additionally, the surfactant helps the solution adhere better to the plant, reducing runoff and wastage.​

Users have reported that using this surfactant with glyphosate leads to more consistent and faster weed control results. Its ease of mixing and compatibility with various products make it a convenient choice for both professionals and homeowners. However, it is crucial to follow label instructions to prevent potential damage to desirable plants.​

Pros:

• Enhances glyphosate coverage​

• Improves herbicide adhesion​

• Compatible with many pesticides​

• Reduces runoff​

• Easy to mix​

• Cost-effective​

• Improves weed control​

Cons:

• Potential plant damage​

• Not suitable for all species​

• Requires precise application

4. Drexel Seed Oil Concentrate (SOC) – Enhancing Absorption and Penetration

Drexel Seed Oil Concentrate (SOC) is a high-quality methylated seed oil (MSO) surfactant designed to improve the performance of glyphosate. By breaking down waxy leaf cuticles, it ensures better penetration of the herbicide into the plant tissue. This makes it especially effective against tough and resistant weeds.

The formulation of Drexel SOC allows it to enhance the absorption rate of glyphosate, ensuring that the active ingredient reaches the plant’s internal systems quickly. This results in faster and more efficient weed control, even in challenging conditions. Many agricultural professionals trust this surfactant for large-scale weed management.

Pros:

• Enhances glyphosate penetration
• Breaks down waxy cuticles
• Effective on tough weeds
• Improves absorption rate
• Reduces drift
• Works well in variable weather
• High compatibility with herbicides

Cons:

• Can be expensive
• Requires precise application
• Not recommended for all crops

5. Kinetic Non-Ionic Surfactant – Maximizing Glyphosate Efficacy

Kinetic Non-Ionic Surfactant is a top-tier option for boosting the performance of glyphosate-based herbicides. This advanced formulation reduces surface tension, allowing the herbicide to spread evenly across the plant surface. It also improves herbicide retention, preventing runoff and increasing the amount of glyphosate absorbed by weeds.

Farmers and landscapers prefer Kinetic due to its high efficiency and versatility. The product’s superior wetting and spreading abilities make it a reliable choice for controlling a broad range of weeds.

Pros:

• Superior spreading capability
• Enhances herbicide retention
• Rainfast properties
• Works on various weed types
• Reduces evaporation loss
• Compatible with multiple herbicides
• Easy to mix and apply

Cons:

• May cause foaming
• Can be harsh on sensitive plants
• More expensive than standard surfactants

6. Agral 90 Non-Ionic Surfactant – Industry Standard for Glyphosate

Agral 90 is a well-established non-ionic surfactant widely used in agriculture to improve glyphosate efficacy. It ensures uniform herbicide distribution and superior absorption, even on hard-to-wet surfaces. This surfactant is particularly effective in large-scale farming operations.

One of Agral 90’s key benefits is its ability to work well with a variety of herbicides, making it a versatile option for weed control. It also helps glyphosate penetrate the plant cuticle more efficiently, ensuring faster and longer-lasting results.

Pros:

• Industry-trusted performance
• Excellent spreading and absorption
• Works well with multiple herbicides
• Reduces glyphosate runoff
• Improves weed control in dry conditions
• Cost-effective for large farms
• Easy to store and mix

Cons:

• Can cause leaf burn if overdosed
• Not ideal for home gardens
• Less effective in extreme weather

7. LI 700 with Lecithin and AMS – Premium Water Conditioner and Surfactant

LI 700 is a unique surfactant that contains lecithin, ammonium sulfate (AMS), and a pH buffer. This combination ensures maximum glyphosate absorption while protecting the herbicide from hard water minerals that may reduce its effectiveness.

This product is particularly useful in areas with hard water, where minerals like calcium and magnesium can bind with glyphosate and reduce its potency. LI 700 neutralizes these effects and enhances herbicide penetration into plant tissues.

Pros:

• Contains AMS for hard water conditioning
• Improves glyphosate absorption
• Reduces spray drift
• Acts as a pH buffer
• Rainfast within hours
• Ideal for challenging weather conditions
• Compatible with many herbicides

Cons:

• More expensive than standard surfactants
• Requires careful mixing
• Can be overpowered in extremely hard water

8. Liberate Methylated Seed Oil – Powerful Oil-Based Surfactant

Liberate Methylated Seed Oil is an excellent choice for enhancing glyphosate absorption, especially in waxy or thick-leaved weeds. This oil-based surfactant ensures deep herbicide penetration, making it a preferred choice for tough weed control.

Its formulation allows it to break through natural barriers on plant surfaces, ensuring that glyphosate reaches the internal structures quickly. This results in improved kill rates and long-term weed suppression.

Pros:

• Ideal for waxy weeds
• Enhances glyphosate penetration
• Works well in dry conditions
• Reduces evaporation loss
• Increases herbicide retention
• Effective even in extreme weather
• Compatible with many herbicides

Cons:

• Can be expensive
• Not ideal for all crops
• Requires proper dosage to avoid damage

9. Dyne-Amic Surfactant – Improving Herbicide Spreading and Retention

Dyne-Amic is a non-ionic surfactant that enhances the performance of glyphosate by improving its spread, adhesion, and absorption. This surfactant helps glyphosate stick to the weed surface, ensuring better absorption and preventing runoff.

One of its standout features is its ability to reduce drift, making it a popular choice for precision applications where herbicide drift could be a concern.

Pros:

• Reduces glyphosate runoff
• Improves absorption rates
• Minimizes herbicide drift
• Enhances retention on leaves
• Rainfast properties
• Works on a variety of weeds
• Easy to mix and apply

Cons:

• Can foam in some mixtures
• Not suitable for all conditions
• Slightly higher cost

10. Chem-Stik 80/20 – Reliable Non-Ionic Surfactant for Glyphosate

Chem-Stik 80/20 is a high-quality non-ionic surfactant designed for use with glyphosate and other herbicides. It provides excellent spreading and wetting properties, ensuring that the herbicide covers the maximum surface area for optimal absorption.

This product is widely used in agricultural and landscaping applications due to its reliability and affordability. It is particularly effective on broadleaf weeds and grasses.

Pros:

• Cost-effective solution
• Improves herbicide coverage
• Works well with most herbicides
• Enhances glyphosate retention
• Reduces runoff and evaporation
• Easy to mix and apply
• Ideal for large-scale applications

Cons:

• Can cause leaf burn in sensitive plants
• Requires proper dilution
• Not always suitable for home use

 Best Surfactant for Glyphosate FAQs

1. Why do I need a surfactant with glyphosate?

A surfactant helps glyphosate spread evenly, penetrate waxy leaf surfaces, and stick to plants for better absorption. Without it, the herbicide may run off or be less effective, especially on tough or water-resistant weeds.

2. What type of surfactant works best with glyphosate?

Non-ionic surfactants (NIS) are the most commonly recommended for glyphosate. They reduce surface tension, improving coverage and absorption. Methylated seed oils (MSOs) and organosilicone surfactants can enhance performance in challenging conditions.

3. How much surfactant should I mix with glyphosate?

The recommended rate varies, but most non-ionic surfactants require 1-2 teaspoons per gallon of water. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid over- or under-application.

4. Can I use dish soap as a surfactant for glyphosate?

While dish soap has surfactant-like properties, it’s not designed for herbicide applications. It can foam excessively, interfere with glyphosate uptake, and may not be as effective as a commercial non-ionic surfactant.

5. Does surfactant improve glyphosate effectiveness in rainy conditions?

Yes! A good surfactant increases glyphosate’s rainfastness, helping it stick to leaves and absorb faster. Some specialized surfactants even improve herbicide performance under wet or humid conditions.

6. Are all glyphosate surfactants safe for the environment?

Many surfactants are biodegradable, but some can be harsh on aquatic life. Look for eco-friendly surfactants if spraying near water sources, and always follow label instructions to minimize environmental impact.

7. What is the best surfactant for glyphosate-resistant weeds?

For tough, glyphosate-resistant weeds, methylated seed oils (MSOs) or organosilicone surfactants can improve penetration. They help glyphosate break through thick, waxy cuticles for better absorption and control

Conclusion

Selecting the right surfactant for glyphosate can significantly impact weed control success. Non-ionic surfactants, methylated seed oils, and ammonium sulfate-based products each offer unique benefits depending on the application.

By choosing the best surfactant for your needs, you can maximize glyphosate effectiveness, ensuring a more efficient and cost-effective weed management strategy.