Herbitsiidid

Herbitsiidid, or herbicides in English, are chemical substances used to suppress or destroy unwanted plants. They are widely applied in agriculture, forestry, horticulture, and urban weed management to improve crop yields, reduce competition, and control invasive species. They can be selective, affecting only certain species, or non-selective, impacting a broad range of plants. They may be applied before planting (pre-emergent) or after emergence (post-emergent) and can be systemic (absorbed and transported within the plant) or contact (killing only tissues they touch). They may also be residual in soil, providing longer-term control.

Common active ingredients include glyphosate, 2,4-D, atrazine, paraquat, diuron, and glufosinate, among others. Each operates by a different mechanism, such as inhibition of essential biosynthetic pathways, disruption of photosynthesis, or altering plant growth regulators. Products are often used in mixtures to enhance efficacy and manage resistance.

Regulation and safety: Herbicides are subject to national and international regulation regarding approval, labeling, storage, transport, and application rates. Proper handling, protective equipment, and adherence to label directions are essential to minimize risks to human health and the environment. Environmental concerns include effects on non-target vegetation, soil and water ecosystems, and the development of herbicide-resistant weed populations. Integrated weed management, including crop rotation, mechanical control, and biological methods, is encouraged to reduce dependence on chemicals.

History: The modern era of herbicides began in the mid-20th century, with widespread adoption accelerating in the 1970s and 1980s. Glyphosate-based formulations became particularly prominent, though regulatory and public scrutiny continues in many regions.