Which type of herbicide is best for controlling perennial weeds in rights-of-way?

The best choice for controlling perennial weeds in rights-of-way is non-selective translocated herbicides. These herbicides work by being absorbed by the plant and then transported throughout its system, targeting the entire plant, including the roots. This can be especially effective against perennial weeds, which often have deep root systems that can make them difficult to eliminate.

Non-selective herbicides do not differentiate between plant types, meaning they will affect any vegetation they come into contact with, making them suitable for treatment in areas where non-target plants are not a concern, or where total vegetation removal is desired. This systemic action is critical for achieving long-term control over perennial weeds that can quickly regrow if only part of the plant is affected.

In contrast, other types of herbicides may not provide effective control over these persistent weeds. Selective residual herbicides primarily target specific types of plants while leaving others unharmed. Contact-only herbicides damage only the area of the plant they touch, which is inadequate for perennials that regenerate from their roots. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent new plants from germinating but do not control existing perennial weeds. Therefore, for effective management of perennial weeds in rights-of-way, non-selective translocated herbicides are the most