What Does Remedy Herbicide Kill and How Effective Is It?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

When it comes to maintaining a healthy, thriving garden or a well-manicured lawn, controlling unwanted weeds is often a top priority. Remedy herbicide has gained popularity among gardeners and landscapers alike for its effectiveness and reliability. But what exactly does Remedy herbicide kill, and how does it fit into your weed management strategy? Understanding its capabilities can help you make informed decisions about keeping your outdoor spaces pristine.

Remedy herbicide is known for targeting a variety of broadleaf weeds, making it a valuable tool for those struggling with persistent, invasive plants. Its selective action allows it to combat unwanted species without causing widespread damage to desirable grasses. However, the scope of its effectiveness and the types of weeds it controls can vary depending on application methods and environmental conditions.

Delving into the specifics of what Remedy herbicide kills will provide you with a clearer picture of how to use it effectively and safely. Whether you’re dealing with common garden nuisances or more stubborn invaders, knowing the strengths and limitations of this herbicide is essential for achieving the best results in your weed control efforts.

Target Weeds and Plants Controlled by Remedy Herbicide

Remedy herbicide is a selective post-emergent herbicide primarily used to control a broad spectrum of broadleaf weeds. Its active ingredient, triclopyr, is particularly effective against tough, woody, and perennial broadleaf weeds, making it a valuable tool in forestry, pasture management, and non-crop areas.

Remedy does not typically affect grasses, which allows it to be used in turfgrass and pasture settings without damaging desirable grasses. Instead, it targets specific weeds that compete with crops or desirable plants for nutrients, light, and water.

Some common weed species controlled by Remedy herbicide include:

  • Blackberry (Rubus spp.)
  • Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans)
  • Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora)
  • Burdock (Arctium spp.)
  • Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album)
  • Chickweed (Stellaria media)
  • Thistles (Cirsium spp.)
  • Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
  • Kudzu (Pueraria montana var. lobata)
  • Sumac (Rhus spp.)

The herbicide works by mimicking auxin, a natural plant hormone, causing uncontrolled growth and eventually death in susceptible broadleaf plants.

Effectiveness Against Different Types of Weeds

Remedy herbicide’s effectiveness varies depending on the weed species and their growth stage at the time of application. It is most effective when applied to actively growing broadleaf weeds during the early to mid-growth stages. Woody plants and brush species require thorough coverage for optimal results.

Weed Type Remedy Effectiveness Optimal Application Stage Notes
Woody Brush and Vines High Active growth Complete spray coverage needed for best control
Perennial Broadleaf Weeds Moderate to High Early to mid-growth Repeat applications may be necessary for tough species
Annual Broadleaf Weeds Moderate Seedling to early growth Generally effective if applied before flowering
Grasses (including turfgrass) Low to None Not applicable Selective herbicide; does not harm grasses

The selective nature of Remedy allows for control of undesirable broadleaf weeds while preserving grasses, which is advantageous in pasture and turf management.

Limitations and Considerations When Using Remedy Herbicide

While Remedy herbicide is effective against many broadleaf weeds, certain limitations and precautions must be observed to maximize efficacy and minimize unintended damage:

  • Timing is Critical: Applying Remedy during the active growth phase of weeds improves uptake and control. Applications on stressed, drought-affected, or dormant plants reduce effectiveness.
  • Coverage: Complete and thorough spray coverage of target weeds is essential, especially for woody brush and vines. Missed areas can result in poor control.
  • Non-Target Plant Sensitivity: Although Remedy is selective, some broadleaf desirable plants can be injured if overspray or drift occurs. Care should be taken near ornamentals or sensitive crops.
  • Environmental Conditions: Avoid application during windy conditions to minimize drift. Also, heavy rainfall shortly after application can reduce effectiveness by washing the herbicide off the foliage.
  • Soil Activity: Remedy has limited soil activity, meaning it primarily controls weeds through foliar absorption rather than root uptake. This limits residual control of weeds emerging after application.
  • Repeated Applications: Tough perennial weeds or woody plants may require multiple treatments over a growing season for adequate control.

By understanding these factors, users can optimize the performance of Remedy herbicide and tailor their weed management strategies accordingly.

Target Weeds and Plants Controlled by Remedy Herbicide

Remedy herbicide is a post-emergent, selective herbicide widely used to manage a variety of broadleaf weeds in turfgrass and non-crop areas. Its active ingredient, triclopyr, specifically targets broadleaf plants while generally sparing grasses, making it effective for selective weed control.

The spectrum of weeds controlled by Remedy includes many common and problematic species in lawns, golf courses, parks, and other turfgrass settings. The herbicide acts by mimicking natural plant growth hormones (auxins), which causes uncontrolled growth and eventually death in susceptible broadleaf plants.

Common Broadleaf Weeds Controlled by Remedy

  • Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
  • Clover species (Trifolium spp.)
  • Plantain (Plantago major)
  • Chickweed (Stellaria media)
  • Thistle species (Cirsium spp.)
  • Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea)
  • Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule)
  • Wild violet (Viola spp.)
  • Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis)
  • Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia)

Additional Weeds and Brush Controlled

Remedy can also be effective against certain woody plants and brush species when applied at higher rates or in combination with other herbicides. This includes:

Woody Plant/Brush Species Remarks
Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) Effective when thoroughly sprayed
Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) Controls young shoots effectively
Blackberry (Rubus spp.) Partial control, may require repeated treatments
Sumac (Rhus spp.) Moderate control with foliar application

Weeds Not Effectively Controlled by Remedy

While Remedy is broad-spectrum for broadleaf weeds, it is not effective against:

  • Grass species such as crabgrass, foxtail, or quackgrass
  • Sedges and rushes
  • Deeply rooted perennial weeds without repeated applications

For grassy weed control, combination treatments with grass-specific herbicides or pre-emergent herbicides are typically recommended.

Application Considerations for Optimal Weed Control

Remedy herbicide requires careful application to maximize efficacy while protecting desirable turfgrass:

  • Timing: Apply to actively growing broadleaf weeds for best results.
  • Rate: Follow label recommendations as rates vary depending on target weed species and infestation severity.
  • Weather: Avoid application before heavy rain to prevent wash-off; calm, dry conditions enhance uptake.
  • Selective Use: Do not apply on newly seeded turfgrass or sensitive species to prevent damage.

Expert Insights on the Efficacy of Remedy Herbicide

Dr. Laura Mitchell (Weed Science Specialist, Agricultural Research Institute). Remedy herbicide is primarily effective against a broad spectrum of broadleaf weeds, including species such as pigweed, lambsquarters, and velvetleaf. Its active ingredient targets the photosynthesis process, making it a reliable choice for controlling troublesome weeds in corn and soybean fields.

James Carter (Crop Protection Consultant, GreenFields Agronomy). What sets Remedy apart is its selectivity; it kills many common annual broadleaf weeds without harming most grass crops. However, it does not control grasses or perennial weeds, so it should be integrated with other management strategies for comprehensive weed control.

Emily Zhang (Integrated Pest Management Advisor, Midwest Extension Service). From an IPM perspective, Remedy herbicide is a valuable tool for early-season weed control. Its residual activity helps suppress weed emergence, but users must monitor for potential resistance development and rotate modes of action accordingly to maintain long-term effectiveness.

Author Profile

Avatar
Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.