Caution
The information below is intended only as a guide. Always read product labels carefully.
Product description
Herbicides with sodium chloride as the active ingredient consist of salt (NaCl).
They may be used to control many different broadleaf weeds in lawns, paths, driveways and vacant lots.
These herbicides are available ready to use or as liquid concentrates to be diluted before use.
Target organisms
Herbicides with sodium chloride as the active ingredient may be used to control the following weeds:
- common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia)
- common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
- ground-ivy (Glechoma hederacea)
- poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans)
Be careful, because these products destroy white clover (Trifolium repens).
NB: Check the product label for a detailed list of the plants and target organisms for which the pesticide is intended.
How it works
Sodium chloride causes the cells of treated plants to lose water quickly, and dry out. When applied as directed, the effects will be visible within 24 hours.
Application
Treatment is most effective when applied to young plants and before flowering.
Spray weed leaves, collars and stems until they are completely soaked, without run-off. Shake the product well before applying.
For optimal results, the product should be applied on a sunny day, at temperatures of at least 24°C. Weeds may regrow if treated on a cloudy day or at temperatures below 24°C.
Some mature weeds may require a second application. To destroy poison ivy, repeated applications (every 3 to 4 weeks and possibly the following year as well) may be required. It is important to follow the instructions on the label carefully.
This herbicide should not be used on sunny days at temperatures above 31°C. Do not apply it on windy or rainy days or if rain is forecast within a few hours.
Precautions
The herbicide should be applied only to undesirable plants, as it can damage other species including grasses and broadleaf plants. Do not spray it on or near ornamental plants, fruit or vegetables. If any gets onto plants you wish to keep, rinse it off immediately with water.
It is best to wear gloves, long sleeves and pants, a mask and goggles when applying it. Avoid any contact with the eyes, skin and clothing, because the product can irritate the eyes and skin. It should not be ingested or inhaled. Wash your hands after handling the product and before eating.
Do not use near any body of water or wetland, or dump any herbicide or rinse your equipment near any bodies of water or wetlands, as this will contaminate the water. Never dump herbicides down sewers.
Keep out of reach of children.