Herbicide classification

Characteristics of each chemical group differs from each other so it is important to know to what group a herbicide belongs before applying it to a plant. Active ingredient will also provide an indication of lead time before a crop can he safely harvested.  There are so many ways of classifying herbicides that we decided only to use groups and active ingredients.  Herbicides can also be classified according to:

• Application to crops
• Danger groups or hazard classification: Ia, Ib, II, III & IV
• Formulation type
• Time of application
• Waiting period

For a complete guide to the use of herbicides in South Africa please contact:

The Directorate: Food Safety & Quality Assurance
Department of Agriculture
Directorate Agricultural Information Services
Private Bag X144
012 319 7141