Roundup Concentrate Plus Mix Ratio Guide
Achieving effective weed control with Roundup Concentrate Plus begins with mixing it at the proper ratio. This versatile glyphosate-based herbicide can tackle even the toughest weeds, but only when you mix and apply it correctly.
Understanding Roundup Concentrate Plus Formulations
Roundup Concentrate Plus contains 41% glyphosate as the active ingredient. Glyphosate is a non-selective, systemic herbicide that moves through the plant and disrupts enzyme production, ultimately killing the entire plant including the roots. It is effective on a broad spectrum of grassy and broadleaf weeds.
The original Roundup formula has been replaced in many products with a new formula known as Roundup For Lawns. The new formula contains an extra ingredient called pelargonic acid which improves rain-fastness. Both formulas use glyphosate as the primary active ingredient.
Active Ingredients in Roundup Concentrate Plus
- Glyphosate - 41%
- Pelargonic acid - related fatty acid compound (included in some versions to make the herbicide adhere to plant surfaces longer)
Mixing Instructions for Roundup Concentrate Plus
It's critical to mix Roundup Concentrate Plus according to the manufacturer's instructions to achieve effective weed control. Using too little product can result in weeds that don't die, while too much can damage non-target plants. Here are some key mix ratios to follow:
Recommended Mix Ratios
- 1.5 oz per gallon of water
- 2.25 oz per gallon of water
- 6 oz per 3 gallons of water
These mix ratios translate to an application rate of 2-4% Roundup concentrate in the tank mix. This concentration has proven effective on most common weed types while minimizing risks to desired vegetation.
Mixing Tips and Best Practices
Follow these tips when mixing Roundup to ensure optimal results:
- Shake or agitate the concentrate before adding it to your tank mix.
- Use clean water and ensure any residues are rinsed out from prior tank mixes.
- Add the Roundup concentrate first before adding any other products.
- Use warm water when possible to aid in dissolving the concentrate.
- Reseal the container and store out of sunlight when not in use.
Using the Proper Roundup Concentrate Plus Ratio
Mixing Roundup at the proper ratio provides several important benefits that lead to successful weed control.
Achieving Effective Weed Control
The glyphosate concentration must be in the effective range to ensure translocation throughout the entire weed plant. Weak mixes often kill only the leaves and stems, allowing the roots to regenerate growth. The right mix ratio ensures the herbicide reaches the roots.
Avoiding Harm to Desired Plants
Excessively strong mix ratios can lead to damage or death of desired plants that are accidentally sprayed or contacted by herbicide runoff. Using the proper mix prevents harm to ornamentals, flowers, shrubs, trees and lawns you want to preserve.
Preventing Runoff and Environmental Impacts
Roundup binds tightly to soil particles, so it does not leach significantly. However, excessively high concentrations can result in minor runoff. A proper ratio minimizes this risk while still providing effective weed control.
Roundup Concentrate Plus Ratios for Different Applications
While the typical mix ratio of 2-4% Roundup concentrate is suitable for most purposes, some applications call for slight variations:
Lawn Renovations - 1.5 oz per gallon
When using Roundup to kill grass and weeds prior to lawn re-seeding or sodding, a lower concentration minimizes any residual activity that could affect new grass growth.
Garden Beds and Flower Beds - 2.25 oz per gallon
Controlling perennial weeds and grasses in garden and flower beds requires higher glyphosate levels to kill plant roots. Use the maximum recommended ratio.
Driveways and Sidewalks - 1.5 oz per gallon
Spot treating weeds growing in cracks and seams of hard surfaces calls for a more dilute mix to avoid harming nearby grass or plants through runoff.
FAQs about Roundup Concentrate Plus Mixing Ratios
How is the mix ratio calculated?
The mix ratio refers to the amount of Roundup concentrate added to a given volume of water. For example, 1.5 oz per gallon means you would add 1.5 fluid ounces of Roundup to one gallon of water in the tank.
What happens if the ratio is too strong or weak?
Too weak of a ratio will provide poor weed control. Too strong risks damage to desired plants along with environmental concerns. Always mix according to label directions.
Can I premix Roundup for later use?
It is best to mix Roundup as needed before each use. Pre-mixing can lead to settling of ingredients. If you must premix, agitate or stir thoroughly before spraying.
Case Study: Reclaiming a Neglected Garden with Proper Roundup Ratios
When we bought our new home, the backyard garden was badly overgrown with weeds taking over what used to be flower beds. I knew the best approach was to treat the whole area with Roundup first before planting any new flowers or vegetables.
Using the recommended mix ratio of 2.25 oz Roundup Concentrate Plus per gallon of water, I filled my 2-gallon pump sprayer. Then I sprayed the entire garden area on a calm day with no expected rain, soaking all the weeds thoroughly. Within a week, the weeds began turning yellow and were dead within two weeks.
I let a few more weeks go by to ensure the herbicide had moved all the way through the roots, then I rototilled the area to break up the dead weeds. After raking smooth, the garden was ready for us to plant flowers and vegetables where previously it was impossible due to the thick weeds.
- Read and follow the label directions carefully for mix ratios and applications.
- Typically a 2-4% solution (1.5 to 2.25 oz per gallon) provides effective weed control.
- Agitate the concentrate before mixing and use clean water.
- Mix only what you need for each application and use proper sprayer equipment.
- Consider lower ratios around desired vegetation and higher ratios for tough perennials.
Mixing Roundup Concentrate Plus at the correct ratios is crucial for maximizing weed control while minimizing risks. Refer to the product label, and don't hesitate to contact the manufacturer with any questions on mixing this versatile glyphosate concentrate for your weed control needs.