Aerial spraying allows large-scale weed control in areas that are hard to access using ground equipment. Whether it’s a dense forest, hilly terrain, or extensive farmland, aerial herbicide application provides a reliable solution.
Choosing the best herbicide for aerial application purposes ensures high effectiveness and economic returns.
Below are the 10 best herbicides commonly used in aerial application for easy decision-making. The right herbicide makes all the difference, ensuring optimal results while minimizing environmental impact.
What Herbicides Are Used In Aerial Application?
1. Glyphosate (Roundup Pro)
Glyphosate, marketed as Roundup Pro, is a non-selective herbicide widely used in aerial operations. It targets a broad range of annual and perennial weeds, including grasses and woody plants. Glyphosate is systemic, meaning it moves through the plant to kill it from root to tip.
Aerial application of glyphosate ensures fast and effective coverage across large landscapes. It is commonly used in agriculture, forestry, and conservation programs. For best results, apply during the weed’s active growth phase.
However, its non-selective nature demands careful handling to prevent damage to non-target vegetation. Proper weather conditions and calibrated spraying are essential. Glyphosate resistance in weeds is also becoming a growing issue.
Pros:
- Broad-spectrum control
- Rapid absorption
- Long-lasting effect
- Cost-effective
- Trusted worldwide
- Systemic action
- Easy mixing
Cons:
- Non-selective
- Resistance issues
- Environmental concerns
2. 2,4-D Amine
2,4-D Amine is a selective herbicide primarily used to control broadleaf weeds in grasslands, pastures, and cereal crops. It mimics plant hormones, causing uncontrolled growth that leads to plant death. Aerial application enhances its utility over wide fields.
2,4-D is affordable and effective when targeting species like clover and dandelion. It’s a common component in herbicide mixes for enhanced control. Use during early growth stages for maximum effectiveness.
Its volatility can cause drift damage to nearby sensitive crops. Apply only under favorable weather conditions and with buffer zones. It does not control grasses.
Pros:
- Selective weed control
- Affordable
- Effective on broadleafs
- Easy to mix
- Commonly used
- Fast action
- Flexible use
Cons:
- Drift potential
- Limited to broadleafs
- Not systemic
3. Dicamba (Banvel)
Dicamba, found in Banvel, is a selective herbicide that disrupts plant growth. It’s commonly applied in cereal and grain crops to manage invasive broadleaf weeds. Often used with glyphosate, it boosts spectrum control.
Its ability to target hard-to-kill perennials like kochia and thistles makes it ideal for aerial use. It performs well in cool climates and provides consistent results. Aerial delivery ensures extensive field coverage.
Dicamba has high volatility, leading to potential off-target movement. Use specialized formulations and apply only during calm weather. Regulatory restrictions may apply in sensitive areas.
Pros:
- Broadleaf weed control
- Synergistic with glyphosate
- Good in cool weather
- Large coverage
- Reliable performance
- Used in grains
- Targets perennials
Cons:
- Drift risk
- Temperature sensitive
- Regulation limits
4. Imazapyr (Arsenal)
Imazapyr, sold as Arsenal, is a potent herbicide used in forestry and non-crop areas. It provides long-term residual control of broadleaf and woody species. It works by inhibiting amino acid synthesis, preventing plant growth.
Used aerially, it reduces underbrush and lowers fire hazards in forest lands. It translocates within the plant and is especially effective on hardwoods and invasive trees. Ideal for site preparation and roadside maintenance.
Its soil persistence can inhibit regrowth of desired species. Avoid using near water sources. Always follow label instructions strictly.
Pros:
- Long residual control
- Broad spectrum
- Systemic action
- Fire risk reduction
- Ideal for forests
- Kills woody plants
- Reduces labor
Cons:
- Soil contamination risk
- Not crop safe
- Long re-entry time
5. Metsulfuron-Methyl (Escort XP)
Metsulfuron-Methyl, sold as Escort XP, is a selective herbicide for use in non-crop and pastureland. It inhibits enzyme production necessary for plant growth, providing efficient weed and brush control. Aerial use allows easy treatment of remote areas.
It requires very low application rates, making it cost-effective and environmentally friendly. It works on invasive species like knapweed and sweet clover. Fast rainfast time enhances dependability.
Escort XP has soil activity and should not be used near sensitive crops. Drift must be managed carefully. Avoid overuse to minimize resistance.
Pros:
- Low application rate
- Cost-effective
- Selective control
- Long shelf life
- Rainfast
- Brush control
- Low odor
Cons:
- Drift potential
- Soil carryover
- Limited grass control
6. Triclopyr (Garlon 4 Ultra)
Triclopyr, marketed as Garlon 4 Ultra, is used for managing woody vegetation and broadleaf weeds. It’s particularly effective in forests, rights-of-way, and pasture settings. It moves through the plant and targets the root system.
The oil-based formula penetrates bark, making it ideal for tough brush. Aerial application helps in inaccessible areas with dense overgrowth. It is selective and doesn’t harm most grasses.
Avoid applying near aquatic environments, as it’s toxic to fish. Use only approved variants for aquatic settings. It’s relatively expensive per acre.
Pros:
- Woody plant control
- Deep penetration
- Systemic action
- Forest ready
- Fast absorption
- Safe on grass
- Tank-mix ready
Cons:
- Water toxicity
- Oil handling required
- Higher cost
7. Sulfometuron Methyl (Oust XP)
Sulfometuron Methyl, available as Oust XP, is a pre- and post-emergent herbicide for non-crop and forestry uses. It inhibits root and shoot development in weeds, delivering long-lasting control. Aerial application suits its use in rugged terrains.
Ideal for roadsides, utility paths, and fire prevention zones, it’s rain-activated for consistent performance. It’s effective on annual and perennial species. It’s a trusted choice in public land management.
It can affect nearby crops if drift occurs. Proper timing and calibration reduce risks. Residual activity may delay re-vegetation.
Pros:
- Dual-mode action
- Fire hazard reduction
- Long residual
- Works pre/post
- Easy to mix
- Low use rate
- Forestry approved
Cons:
- Crop risk
- Delays replanting
- Needs rainfall
8. Aminopyralid (Milestone)
Aminopyralid, branded as Milestone, is a selective herbicide used for control of invasive broadleaf weeds. It’s primarily applied in rangelands, pastures, and natural areas. Aerial application offers quick and thorough treatment over vast tracts of rough terrain.
This herbicide provides extended residual control for over 12 months, especially against thistles and knapweeds. It is absorbed quickly and translocated within the plant for systemic activity. It’s safe on most desirable grasses and provides excellent forage preservation.
Avoid applying near sensitive crops like tomatoes or potatoes. Groundwater contamination is possible if misapplied. Follow label directions closely to avoid issues.
Pros:
- Long residual control
- Systemic action
- Selective to grasses
- Low use rate
- Excellent for rangeland
- Targets thistles
- Reduces reapplication
Cons:
- Crop sensitivity
- Environmental persistence
- Not for all soils
9. Fluroxypyr (Vista XRT)
Fluroxypyr, found in Vista XRT, is a fast-acting herbicide designed to eliminate woody plants and broadleaf weeds. It is commonly used in conservation and infrastructure projects. Aerial delivery ensures rapid spread across hard-to-reach brush zones.
It mimics natural plant hormones, leading to abnormal cell growth and plant death. Fluroxypyr works well on species like dogwood, sumac, and ragweed. It breaks down quickly in the environment, reducing carryover risk.
Use with care near sensitive broadleaf crops. Combining with other herbicides increases control spectrum. Apply during warm, sunny days for best results.
Pros:
- Fast action
- Targets woody weeds
- Low residue
- Rainfast quickly
- Mix compatible
- Safe on grass
- Ideal for brush
Cons:
- Sensitive crop drift
- Short residual
- Limited weed range
10. Clopyralid (Transline)
Clopyralid, marketed as Transline, offers exceptional control of noxious weeds like Canada thistle and spotted knapweed. It is a selective, systemic herbicide that works well in non-crop areas, pastureland, and right-of-way zones. Aerial spraying helps reach inaccessible terrains quickly.
It targets key broadleaf species without harming most grasses, making it ideal for integrated weed management. It remains active in soil for several months, offering lasting protection. Transline is known for its precision and crop safety.
Not for use on landscapes near sensitive crops. Follow rotation restrictions for post-application planting. Avoid applying under windy conditions.
Pros:
- Selective targeting
- Long-lasting soil activity
- Minimal grass damage
- Great on knapweed
- Effective in pastures
- Good for roadside use
- Excellent tank mix
Cons:
- Rotation limits
- Drift risk
- Sensitive crops affected
11. Picloram (Tordon 22K)
Picloram, known as Tordon 22K, is a powerful systemic herbicide for broadleaf weed and brush control. It’s often applied in forest management, pasturelands, and utility corridors. Aerial application provides widespread impact over rugged landscapes.
It is effective against tough species like kudzu, locust, and leafy spurge. The herbicide translocates quickly through roots and stems for full kill. Its long residual keeps treated areas clean for up to a year.
Not approved for use near water sources due to groundwater risk. Must be applied by certified applicators only. Label compliance is critical.
Pros:
- Strong residual
- Broad-spectrum control
- Deep systemic action
- Brush-specific formula
- High potency
- Forestry-approved
- Fewer repeat sprays
Cons:
- Water contamination risk
- Restricted use
- Not crop safe
12. Diuron (Karmex DF)
Diuron, sold as Karmex DF, is a non-selective, pre-emergent herbicide that works by inhibiting photosynthesis. It is widely used on non-crop lands, industrial sites, and railroad rights-of-way. Aerial spraying provides consistent coverage across vast, open areas.
Its long-lasting soil activity makes it effective against annual grasses and broadleaf weeds. It binds well to soil particles, reducing leaching. Diuron is rainfast and needs moisture to activate.
Use only where total vegetation control is desired. Avoid areas near desirable plantings or sandy soils. Regulatory compliance is mandatory.
Pros:
- Pre-emergent control
- Long soil activity
- Effective on annuals
- Low leaching risk
- Works fast with rain
- Industrial safe
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Non-selective
- Not for crops
- Soil mobility
13. Glufosinate (Liberty)
Glufosinate, marketed as Liberty, is a non-selective herbicide effective against a wide range of weeds. It is commonly used in LibertyLink crops like corn, soybeans, and cotton. Aerial application is favored for large-acre coverage.
Unlike glyphosate, glufosinate disrupts ammonia metabolism, causing rapid plant death. It is ideal for managing glyphosate-resistant weed populations. Its contact activity ensures fast visual results.
Not systemic—repeat applications may be necessary. Rainfast within four hours. Must be applied during sunny, active growth periods.
Pros:
- Works on resistant weeds
- Fast action
- Non-selective
- LibertyLink compatible
- Visual burn-down
- Great for rotation
- Safe for crops
Cons:
- Contact only
- Repeat needed
- Weather dependent
14. Paraquat (Gramoxone SL 3.0)
Paraquat, branded as Gramoxone SL 3.0, is a fast-acting, non-selective herbicide used for burndown before planting. It is highly toxic but effective under professional use. Aerial spraying ensures rapid action across large tracts.
It disrupts photosynthesis immediately upon contact. Paraquat is rainfast in 15 minutes and provides results within 24 hours. Ideal for pre-plant field cleanup.
Its toxicity requires extreme caution, PPE, and licensed application. Drift to nearby vegetation can be damaging. Never use in residential areas.
Pros:
- Extremely fast
- Pre-plant cleanup
- Rainfast quickly
- Cost-effective
- High potency
- Kills resistant weeds
- Clear field quickly
Cons:
- Highly toxic
- No residual
- Requires license
15. Isoxaben (Gallery)
Isoxaben, available as Gallery, is a pre-emergent herbicide targeting broadleaf weeds. It is ideal for turf, ornamental, and non-crop settings. Aerial application is suitable for large ornamental and right-of-way areas.
It prevents cell wall formation in germinating weeds, stopping their development. Isoxaben is safe for most established turfgrasses and perennials. Rainfall or irrigation activates its effectiveness.
It does not control grasses. Use only as a preventive—not for existing weeds. Application should be timed ahead of expected germination windows.
Pros:
- Broadleaf prevention
- Turf safe
- Great for ornamentals
- Low use rate
- Good tank mix
- Residual control
- Pre-emergent shield
Cons:
- No grass control
- Pre-emergent only
- Needs activation
16. Pendimethalin (Prowl H2O)
Pendimethalin, sold under the brand Prowl H2O, is a pre-emergent herbicide that prevents seedling growth by inhibiting cell division. It is widely used in row crops like corn, soybeans, and vegetables. Aerial application allows uniform coverage over broad crop fields.
The herbicide forms a protective barrier in the soil, controlling annual grasses and some broadleaf weeds before they emerge. It binds tightly to soil particles, minimizing leaching and runoff. Rainfall helps activate the herbicide for optimal performance.
Avoid use on sandy soils to prevent crop injury. It doesn’t control existing weeds. Tank-mixing with post-emergent herbicides may improve outcomes.
Pros:
- Strong pre-emergent
- Rain activated
- Binds to soil
- Low leaching risk
- Broad crop label
- Cost-effective
- Great on grasses
Cons:
- No post control
- Soil-sensitive
- Limited spectrum
17. Tebuthiuron (Spike 80DF)
Tebuthiuron, marketed as Spike 80DF, is a soil-applied herbicide used for brush and woody plant control. It is often used in rangelands and utility corridors. Aerial application is effective for reaching large, rough terrains.
The herbicide is absorbed through roots, slowly killing the target plant over weeks or months. It’s ideal for controlling mesquite, creosote bush, and other hardy species. Tebuthiuron remains active in the soil for up to a year.
Avoid use near desirable trees and water sources. Overuse can lead to soil sterilization. Apply only with calibrated equipment by professionals.
Pros:
- Excellent for brush
- Long-lasting control
- Soil-active
- Large area coverage
- Minimal re-spraying
- Targets tough species
- Low labor needs
Cons:
- Soil sterilization risk
- Long activity
- Not crop safe
18. Bromacil (Hyvar X-L)
Bromacil, sold as Hyvar X-L, is a non-selective herbicide used for long-term vegetation control. It is commonly applied on industrial sites, railroads, and pipelines. Aerial spraying provides comprehensive soil coverage for hard-to-access areas.
It is absorbed by roots and inhibits photosynthesis, making it effective for total vegetation control. It provides residual activity for up to a year depending on application rate and soil type. Useful where zero regrowth is the goal.
Not suitable for crop land or near desirable vegetation. Leaching may occur in sandy or wet soils. Follow all environmental guidelines for safe use.
Pros:
- Total vegetation kill
- Long residual
- Root absorbed
- Ideal for industry
- Reduces maintenance
- Broad spectrum
- Aerial efficient
Cons:
- Not crop safe
- Leaching risk
- Long soil impact
19. Hexazinone (Velpar L)
Hexazinone, under the brand Velpar L, is a broad-spectrum herbicide used in forestry and industrial applications. It is commonly used to manage brush and perennial weeds. Aerial application enhances coverage in timber and rough terrain.
It acts through root and foliar absorption, offering both contact and residual control. It is rainfast within hours and provides visible results in days. Common targets include pine, hardwoods, and herbaceous weeds.
Avoid use on permeable soils or near drinking water supplies. Environmental monitoring may be necessary in sensitive locations. Use only under guidance of forestry professionals.
Pros:
- Dual absorption
- Contact + residual
- Fast rainfast
- Forestry effective
- Wide weed range
- Aerial friendly
- Long duration
Cons:
- Soil mobility
- Water risk
- Requires oversight
20. Sethoxydim (Poast Plus)
Sethoxydim, branded as Poast Plus, is a selective post-emergent herbicide for grass control in broadleaf crops. It is often used in soybeans, peanuts, and vegetables. Aerial application helps treat large acreages quickly after weeds emerge.
It disrupts lipid synthesis in grass species, causing them to wither and die. Sethoxydim is absorbed quickly through leaves and shows results within a few days. It has minimal impact on most broadleaf crops.
Avoid tank-mixing with broadleaf herbicides without testing compatibility. Repeat applications may be needed for regrowth. It does not offer residual control.
Pros:
- Grass-specific control
- Post-emergent
- Broad crop use
- Fast visible results
- Selective action
- Low drift
- Easy mixing
Cons:
- No residual
- Repeat required
- Mix caution
What Herbicides Are Used In Aerial Application FAQs
1. What is aerial herbicide application?
Aerial herbicide application involves using aircraft to spray herbicides over large areas. It is commonly used in agriculture and forestry. The method allows access to hard-to-reach areas efficiently.
2. Are aerial herbicides safe for the environment?
When applied correctly, aerial herbicides are safe and regulated. Safety measures and modern technology minimize environmental risks. Always follow label instructions.
3. How do I choose the right herbicide for aerial use?
Select based on weed species, crop type, and application goals. Consider selectivity, volatility, and residual activity. Consult local extension services or agronomists.
4. What weather conditions are best for aerial spraying?
Calm wind, moderate temperatures, and low humidity are ideal. Avoid spraying during high winds or temperature inversions. Early morning or evening hours often offer best conditions.
5. Can aerial application harm nearby crops?
Yes, especially with volatile or non-selective herbicides. Use drift-reduction nozzles and proper buffer zones. Monitor weather conditions carefully.
6. How often should aerial herbicides be applied?
Depends on the herbicide and infestation level. Some offer season-long control; others may need multiple applications. Follow product recommendations.
7. Is aerial herbicide application cost-effective?
Yes, for large areas where ground access is limited. It reduces labor and time costs. Long-lasting herbicides offer excellent ROI.
Conclusion
Aerial herbicide application remains a critical tool in modern weed management, especially for large or inaccessible areas. Choosing the right product—whether it’s glyphosate, dicamba, or triclopyr—can make a significant difference in effectiveness and environmental safety.
Each herbicide has its strengths, target weeds, and application best practices. Understanding these aspects helps in making informed, cost-effective decisions.
Take action today—choose the right aerial herbicide and bomb your weeds into extinction with WeedBom precision!