When should herbicide applications be scheduled to maximize effectiveness?

Scheduling herbicide applications in the early morning or late afternoon is optimal for maximizing effectiveness due to several environmental factors. At these times, temperatures are typically cooler, which helps to prevent stress on the target plants and improves the herbicide's ability to be absorbed. Cooler temperatures can also reduce evaporation rates, allowing for better adhesion and contact of the herbicide with the plant surfaces.

Additionally, during early morning or late afternoon, there is often higher humidity, which can contribute to more effective herbicide action. The sunlight is less intense, which can protect the herbicide from rapid degradation or volatilization caused by heat.

In contrast, applying herbicides during the hottest part of the day can lead to increased evaporation and potential damage to desirable plants, as the stress from heat can hinder the efficacy of the herbicide. Right before rainfall might seem advantageous, but heavy rain can wash away the herbicide before it has the opportunity to be absorbed by the target plants. Additionally, applying herbicides when temperatures are below freezing is not effective, as plant metabolism and absorption processes are significantly slowed in such cold conditions. Therefore, the early morning or late afternoon timing is ideal for optimal herbicide effectiveness.