What is florasulam?

Florasulam is a selective herbicide active ingredient that is included in a number of formulations supplied by ICL.

Florasulam belongs to the triazolopyrimidine sulfonanilide chemical family and it is designed to target and control a broad spectrum of broad-leaved weeds in turf but without harming the grass.

Its selective nature makes it an ideal choice for use on golf courses, sports fields, and residential lawns.

How does florasulam work?

Florasulam operates by inhibiting the growth of weeds through the disruption of the plant’s enzyme system, specifically the acetolactate synthase (ALS) enzyme.

This enzyme is crucial for the synthesis of essential amino acids that are vital for plant growth. By inhibiting ALS, florasulam effectively stops weed growth, leading to their eventual death.

Importantly, the turf grass, being less sensitive to this mode of action, remains unaffected and healthy.

Advantages of using florasulam

• Selective weed control: Florasulam is highly selective, targeting a wide range of broad-leaved weeds without damaging the turf grass, making it an excellent choice for maintaining the aesthetics and health of lawns.
• Low does rates: Due to its potency, florasulam is effective at very low application rates. This not only makes it cost-effective but also reduces the environmental load, minimising the risk of off-target damage.
• Flexibility in application: It can be applied in post-emergent situations, offering flexibility in weed management strategies. This allows for effective planning and application throughout the growing season.
• Compatibility: Florasulam can be formulated with other herbicides to broaden the spectrum of weed control or to manage resistance, making it a versatile tool in integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.

Safety and environmental considerations

Like any herbicide, the use of florasulam must be approached with consideration for safety and environmental impact.

It is generally regarded as having a favourable environmental profile, with low toxicity to non-target species when used as directed. However, adherence to application guidelines and rates is crucial to ensure the safety of the operator, the public, and the environment.

Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn during application to prevent exposure.

Conclusion

Formulations containing florasulam can provide a cutting-edge solution in the fight against broad-leaved weeds in turf management.

Its selective action, combined with environmental safety and cost-effectiveness, makes it a valuable tool for professionals seeking to maintain high-quality turf surfaces.

As with any herbicide, responsible use—aligned with manufacturer recommendations and local regulations—is essential for achieving the best results while safeguarding the environment.