What Is Simazine?
Simazine is an odorless, white, hydrating powder with a triazine skeleton (C7H12ClN5).
This agent is processed into hydrate or granule formulations and marketed as a herbicide. Its mechanism of action is believed to involve absorption through the roots, followed by transfer into the plant body, where it inhibits photosynthesis, thus suppressing growth and leading to death.
Simazine usage is restricted in some areas; therefore, verification is required before use. In some cases, the purchaser’s name and address must be provided at the time of purchase. Although Simazine is considered a standard substance, its slow decomposition and strong chemical properties warrant caution.
As a water-polluting pesticide, it is crucial to use Simazine in a manner that prevents it from entering rivers, lakes, marshes, sea areas, or aquaculture ponds.
Uses of Simazine
Simazine is primarily used as a herbicide. Due to its potential to pollute water, it is more commonly used in fields than in paddy fields, where runoff after application is a concern.
It is registered for a wide variety of weeds and can be applied to vegetables, cereals, legumes, fruit trees, flowering plants, as well as both western and Japanese turf. Its use on turf makes it popular among non-agricultural professionals.
When applied uniformly to the soil before the emergence of weeds, Simazine is effective in suppressing weed growth over a long period. It is especially effective against annual weeds such as Dipterocarpaceae, red cress, and spikeweed, as well as grassy weeds like enochlograss and false bindweed. Its effectiveness is consistent across temperature variations, making it suitable for both summer and winter crops.
Characteristics of Simazine
Pros
- Registered for a wide range of crops, a single application can suppress weeds for an extended period.
- Suitable for use in non-aquatic environments.
- Effective for weed control in garden lawns due to its applicability on turf.
Cons
- As a water-polluting pesticide, precautions must be taken to avoid spillage or scattering during purchase and use.
- Less effective against taller weeds, requiring application before weed emergence or after cutting growing weeds.
Types of Simazine
Simazine is available in the following forms:
1. Simazine Granule
Simazine granules are granular and registered for use on annual weeds in both Japanese and Western turfs (Tifton). They are highly effective and applied directly to the soil.
2. Simazine Hydrate
Simazine hydrate is a powder that is diluted in water. This opaque liquid will precipitate if left standing. It is registered for annual weeds on fruit trees, mulberry, and sycamore trees. The application involves diluting the product and applying it to the soil.
3. Simazine Flowable
Simazine flowable is a liquid formulation. When diluted in water, it foams less and reduces leaf and fruit contamination. Like simazine granules, it is registered for use on annual weeds on Japanese and Western turfs (Tifton) and should be diluted and applied to the soil.
Other Information on Simazine
Precautions for Using Simazine
- Wear gloves and masks during application to avoid direct contact with eyes, nose, and skin.
- Postpone spraying during or when rainfall is expected, as rain can wash away the chemical.
- Limited to one application per cultivation cycle. The total number of applications for any pesticide containing simazine is also restricted to one, to avoid overuse.
- Take precautions to prevent the spray solution from affecting nearby unregistered crops or broadleaf crops.
- Due to the long-lasting effect of the spray, caution is advised when planting new crops shortly after application, as germination may be impacted.