Submodule 8: How Invasive Plants Are Controlled

Other Factors Influencing Weed Control: Soil

The type and status of soil can influence the effectiveness of herbicides, especially if the chemical needs to seep into the soil to reach plant roots. Soil can affect how well the herbicide interacts with the root surface, chemical degradation rate, volatility, and availability for absorption into the plant. These conditions are influenced by:

• Texture of the soil; size of soil particles
• Amount of organic mater
• Soil pH; its acidity or alkalinity
• Soil moisture
• Soil temperature

(Photo courtesy USDA)