Prosulfocarb Herbicide Mode of Action: How It Works to Control Weeds

Prosulfocarb is a pre-emergent and early post-emergent selective herbicide widely used for controlling annual grasses and some broadleaf weeds. It plays a key role in weed management programs for cereal crops such as wheat and barley.

How Prosulfocarb Works

Prosulfocarb belongs to the thiocarbamate chemical family and functions primarily as a cell division inhibitor. It acts by interfering with lipid synthesis during cell development, although its exact biochemical target is not as clearly defined as some other herbicide groups.

Absorption and Translocation

• Absorbed through the coleoptile and emerging shoots of germinating weed seeds
• Limited root uptake
• Localized action, meaning it does not translocate far within the plant

After application, prosulfocarb forms a protective barrier in the soil. Germinating weed seeds absorb the herbicide, which disrupts their early growth processes and prevents emergence.

Herbicide Group Classification

Prosulfocarb is classified under HRAC Group N (formerly K3), a group that includes other lipid synthesis inhibitors like triallate and EPTC. These herbicides act on susceptible species before they break the soil surface.

Target Weeds and Use Cases

Prosulfocarb is particularly effective against:

Grass Weeds

• Annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum)
• Wild oats (Avena spp.)
• Canary grass (Phalaris spp.)
• Foxtail (Setaria spp.)

Broadleaf Weeds (partial control)

• Chickweed (Stellaria media)
• Shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)

Best results are achieved when used as part of an integrated weed control strategy, often in tank mixes with herbicides such as pyroxasulfone, trifluralin, or diflufenican.

Timing and Best Practices

• Apply pre-emergence or early post-emergence to moist soil conditions.
• Soil incorporation by rainfall or irrigation enhances performance.
• Avoid mechanical disturbance after application.

Resistance Management

Prosulfocarb has low to moderate resistance risk, especially when rotated with herbicides from different HRAC groups. Integrated use with cultural practices (e.g., crop rotation, competitive seeding rates) is recommended.

Summary

Prosulfocarb acts as a lipid synthesis inhibitor and disrupts cell development in emerging weed seedlings, making it an effective pre-emergent tool for grass weed control in cereals. Understanding its mode of action allows for strategic planning in resistance management and crop safety.

If you’re incorporating prosulfocarb into your weed control program, ensure it aligns with soil moisture, crop type, and resistance management goals for best results.