The demand for better, more cost effective, more accessible organic gardening products is on the rise. This is great news for everyone. The more people and landscape professionals that choose natural products over synthetic and toxic chemicals, the healthier the environment will be. Companies like Neudorff and others have listened to the public and have responded with a full industry of organic gardening products. These companies are continuously improving formulas and coming up with new and better items. One in particular that we are talking about today is Fiesta Weed Killer. This iron-based weed killer attacks and eliminates many broadleaf weeds that have already emerged.
The Active Ingredient is Iron
Iron-based weed killers like Fiesta typically contain a form of iron called ferrous sulfate or iron chelate, which is combined with other ingredients to create a liquid or granular herbicide formulation. These types of herbicides are effective against a wide range of broadleaf weeds. This includes, but is not limited to, dandelions, clover, and plantain. Iron-based weed killers are usually applied directly to the foliage of the target weeds. They can be in the form of a liquid spray or granules that are dissolved in water and sprayed onto the weeds. It’s important to note that iron-based weed killers are generally non-selective, meaning they can harm or kill any vegetation they come into contact with, including desirable plants. Therefore, it’s crucial to apply them carefully, targeting only the weeds and avoiding contact with desired plants. Additionally, these weed killers are more effective on broadleaf weeds compared to grassy weeds.
How Fiesta Weed Killer Works
Iron-based weed killers like Fiesta work through a process called desiccation. Once applied, the product is absorbed by the weed’s leaves and other above-ground plant parts. The herbicide contains iron compounds, such as ferrous sulfate or iron chelates, which act as the active ingredients. Iron compounds in the herbicide cause damage to the cell membranes of the weeds. They disrupt the osmotic balance and water regulation within the cells. As a result of the damage to the cell membranes, the weeds lose their ability to retain water effectively. This leads to rapid dehydration and desiccation of the weed tissues. The dehydration and damage to the weed’s cells become severe enough to cause the death of the weed. The affected weeds typically turn brown, wither and die.
How Organic Products are Better for the Environment
Iron-based weed killers are often considered a more environmentally friendly option compared to other herbicides. This is because they typically break down relatively quickly in the environment and have low toxicity to mammals, birds, and aquatic organisms. However, they can still be harmful to certain beneficial insects and organisms. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use them judiciously.
Go Organic Even if You Don’t Use Fiesta Weed Killer
It is important for as many homeowners and landscapers as possible to stop using chemicals and toxins on their lawns and in their gardens. So, even if Fiesta weed killer isn’t exactly what you need, there are organic products and alternatives that are much safer than chemicals.
Vinegar has become popular as a do-it-all item. In terms of weed control, the high concentration of acetic acid in vinegar can cause the plant cells to dry out, leading to the withering and death of the weed. Vinegar-based weed killers are generally non-selective and can harm desirable plants, so caution is necessary during application.
Some organic weed killers utilize essential oils derived from plants such as clove, citrus, or peppermint. These oils often contain compounds that have herbicidal properties. When applied to the weeds, these essential oils can disrupt the cell membranes, interfere with plant growth, or cause other damage that leads to weed control. However, their effectiveness can vary, and they may require repeated applications.
Corn gluten meal is a natural byproduct of the corn milling process. It is primarily known as a pre-emergent herbicide, meaning it inhibits the germination of weed seeds. When applied to the soil, corn gluten meal releases organic compounds that can prevent seedling root development, effectively reducing weed growth. It is important to note that corn gluten meal is primarily effective for controlling annual weeds. It may not be as effective against perennial weeds.
Organic pre-emergent herbicides work by forming a barrier in the soil that prevents weed seeds from sprouting and establishing roots. These herbicides often use natural ingredients such as corn gluten meal, soybean oil, or plant extracts. The barrier inhibits the growth of weed seedlings while allowing desired plants to emerge unaffected.
