Alternative technology for weed control through the use of a potentiator: bioherbicide case

Abstract

The use of chemical herbicides for weed control is a widely adopted practice in modern agriculture due to its effectiveness, however, it poses significant problems, such as: soil and water contamination, as well as generating resistance by weeds, meaning that they become more difficult to control when applying the same active ingredients, leading the producer to make constant applications or higher doses. In addition, the intensive use of herbicides can increase costs and limit the adoption of more sustainable agricultural practices, creating a crucial challenge for modern agriculture that seeks to balance efficiency with environmental responsibility.

The use of potentiators to increase the efficacy of bioherbicides is presented as a promising strategy to reduce the dependence on chemical herbicides. Bioherbicides, derived from living organisms or their products, offer a greener alternative to weed control, but their effectiveness can often be limited by factors such as inadequate application or low persistence in the field. Polydimethylsiloxane at a dose of 2 mL per 1 L of water can potentiate the bioherbicide based on mullein, coconut oil, pine resin, Puccinia mushroom and papain (BH2) using doses of 60% and thus obtain a similar or slightly higher control, that is, a medium control to sufficient control according to the European Weed Research Society (EWRS).