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Are you tired of weeds and crabgrass ruining your lawn? Quinclorac may be the solution you need. As a selective post-emergent herbicide, quinclorac can control broad-leaf and grassy weeds in lawns, golf courses, athletic fields, picnic grounds, roadsides, airports, schools, and other commercial establishments.
But how much quinclorac should you mix with water for a great application? In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using quinclorac, including the best time of year, the correct amount of product and water, the right equipment to use, and the safety precautions to take.
Table Of Contents
Understanding Quinclorac
Quinclorac is a superior systemic herbicide that targets a wide variety of weeds, including crabgrass, dandelion, clover, and perennial ryegrass. It comes in different formulations, such as dry flowable (DF), water-soluble liquid (WSL), and suspension concentrate (SC), but the most common one is quinclorac 75 DF.
Quinclorac works by mimicking auxins, a plant hormone that regulates growth and development. It disrupts the normal growth pattern of weeds, causing them to grow abnormally and eventually die. Quinclorac is most effective when applied to young, actively growing weeds, but it can also control mature weeds with additional sequential applications.
The Best Time to Apply Quinclorac
The best time to apply quinclorac depends on the type of weeds you want to control and the stage of growth of your desirable grass. For example, if you’re dealing with crabgrass, which is an annual weed that germinates in the spring and dies in the fall, you should apply quinclorac in the early summer, when the weed is still young and vulnerable.
On the other hand, if you’re dealing with broadleaf weeds, which are perennial and can grow all year round, you should apply quinclorac in the late spring or early fall, when the weeds are actively growing and absorbing nutrients.
In general, you should avoid applying quinclorac during hot, dry weather or when rain is expected in the next 24 hours, as this can reduce its effectiveness or cause it to drift to unintended areas.
Mixing Quinclorac with Water
Mixing quinclorac with water is a crucial step in achieving great results. The correct amount of water and product can vary depending on the size of the treatment area, the type of equipment used, and the mix rate of quinclorac.
In general, you should follow the instructions on the product label and the recommendations of your local cooperative extension office.
For example, if you’re using a backpack sprayer, you should fill the tank halfway with water, add the appropriate amount of quinclorac, and then fill the tank with the remaining amount of water. If you’re using a professional skid sprayer, you should mix quinclorac in a separate container with a specific amount of water and a nonionic surfactant, and then add it to the spray tank.
As a rule of thumb, you should use 0.367 ounces of quinclorac 75 DF per gallon of water for spot treatments, and 1.1 to 1.5 ounces per 1,000 square feet of lawn for broadcast sprays. However, the exact amount of quinclorac and water can vary depending on the type and density of weeds, the severity of the infestation, and the desired level of control.
Applying Quinclorac Safely and Efficiently
Applying quinclorac safely and efficiently requires proper equipment, technique, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Before you start, make sure you wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and a respirator if required by the product label.
Next, calibrate your sprayer to ensure that you apply the correct amount of product and water per unit area. This involves measuring the output of your sprayer in ounces per minute or gallons per acre, and adjusting the pressure, nozzle, and speed accordingly.
Then, apply quinclorac in a uniform and thorough manner, making sure that you cover the entire treatment area without overlapping or missing spots. You can use a spt spray for small areas or a broadcast spray for large areas, depending on your needs.
After you’re done, clean your equipment with water and a mild detergent, and store it in a dry and secure place. Dispose of any leftover product or rinse water according to the local regulations and the product label.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I mix quinclorac with other herbicides?
It depends on the product label and the type of herbicide. In general, you should avoid mixing quinclorac with other herbicides unless the label explicitly allows it. Mixing quinclorac with certain herbicides can reduce its effectiveness or cause phytotoxicity to desirable grass.
Can I apply quinclorac to newly seeded turf?
It depends on the product label and the stage of emergence of the desirable grass. In general, you should wait until the newly seeded turf has established roots and has been mowed at least twice before applying quinclorac.
Can I apply quinclorac to mature trees or ornamentals?
No, quinclorac is not labeled for use on mature trees or ornamentals. Applying quinclorac to these plants can cause severe damage or death.
Can I water my lawn after applying quinclorac?
It depends on the product label and the type of formulation. In general, you should wait until the quinclorac has dried on the foliage before watering your lawn. This can take several hours or days, depending on the weather and the formulation.
Watering your lawn too soon can reduce the effectiveness of quinclorac or cause it to wash off.
Can quinclorac harm children or pets?
- Yes, quinclorac can be harmful if ingested or inhaled by children or pets. You should keep them away from the treatment area until the quinclorac has dried on the foliage, and then rinse the area with water to remove any residue.
You should also store the product in a secure and inaccessible place, and follow the safety precautions on the product label.
