Top 5 Selective Herbicides That Work in Maize Farming
Kelvin Wairimu 
Maize farming has become more affordable due to the use of herbicides, which have significantly reduced labour costs, particularly for weed control. This practice minimizes soil disturbance, conserves moisture for crops even during dry seasons, and greatly boosts yields.
Selective herbicides are specifically formulated to control certain weeds or categories of weeds. These herbicides are toxic to some plant species but less harmful to others. Selective herbicides can be classified as either pre-emergence or post-emergence.
Selective Pre-Emergent Herbicides
These herbicides are applied to fields before weeds emerge, preventing their germination and growth. They target specific weeds rather than all types, so it’s important to read product labels carefully to choose a herbicide suited for the particular weed species you want to control.
Selective Post-Emergent Herbicides
These herbicides are applied after weeds have appeared. They are the most commonly used in Kenya, but many products work as both pre-and post-emergence herbicides, which is the focus of this guide. Before purchasing, be sure to confirm whether the product is intended for pre-emergence, post-emergence, or both.
Effective Selective Herbicides for Maize:
1. Governor 580SE
It is a pre-emergence and early post-emergence herbicide designed to control annual broadleaf weeds and grasses in maize fields. It effectively manages resistant weed varieties, making it suitable for resistance management programs. Apply at the rate of 250 ml per 20 litres of water.
2. TingaTinga 380SC
This is a selective early post-emergence herbicide that targets annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in maize. Apply 250 ml in 20 liters of water. Foliar application should occur once per season after the weeds emerge, preferably when they are still young.
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3. Maguguma 380SC
A selective systematic herbicide, Maguguma is effective as both a pre-emergent and early post-emergence treatment for annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in maize fields. It inhibits the reemergence of weeds for an extended period and remains stable in various soil types under normal weather conditions. Apply at a rate of 250-300 ml per 20 liters of water.
4. 2,4D-Max 72
This is a selective post-emergence herbicide used to control broadleaf weeds in maize, wheat, rice, and lawns. Apply at the rate of 150-200 ml per 20 litres of water.
5. D-AMINE 72SL
This herbicide functions as both a pre-emergent and post-emergent treatment for controlling annual and perennial broadleaf weeds in maize. Apply at the rate of 120-150 ml per 20 litres of water.
Buy all these selective herbicides from our Farmshop Here .
Mixing Instructions
To prepare the herbicide mixture, half-fill the mixing tank with water, then add the required amount of your chosen herbicide. Fill the tank to the desired level with water and mix thoroughly. It is recommended to use the mixture on the same day for optimal effectiveness.
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