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10 Best Woody Brush Killer 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Dow AgroSciences Garlon 4 Ultra Herbicide 2.5 GL

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,428
Application Method
Coverage Area
Environmental Impact

Most important from
17 reviews

Application Method
Multiple applications may be needed to achieve desired results, as initial applications may not completely eradicate all targeted plants.
Coverage Area
Garlon has been the most effective solution for controlling Blackberries, even in challenging environments like a 70-acre forest land.
Environmental Impact
It usually takes a few years before vegetation returns after using Garlon, indicating its lasting impact.

The Dow AgroSciences Garlon 4 Ultra Herbicide is designed for those needing to control a wide range of woody plants and resilient weeds. It effectively targets 55 woody species and more than 25 types of tough-to-control annual and perennial broadleaf weeds, making it suitable for use in various non-crop areas like roadsides, railroads, pipelines, industrial sites, forests, and grazing areas. This versatility is a significant strength if you have diverse vegetation management needs across different terrains and environments.

The product comes in a liquid form and covers an area of approximately 2,500 square feet per 2.5-gallon container, offering a decent coverage area for medium to large-sized properties. The herbicide's effectiveness in controlling high-anxiety woody species like cherry, loblolly pine, mesquite, red oak, sweetgum, and Scotch broom is a strong point, as these can be particularly challenging to manage with less potent products. Additionally, its suitability for various application methods, including establishing and maintaining wildlife openings, adds to its utility.

Safety precautions are implied, which means users should exercise caution and thoroughly read the product label before use to ensure safe and effective application. This product is ideal for those dealing with extensive and challenging vegetation control across different types of non-crop areas.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,428
Application Method
Coverage Area
Environmental Impact

Most important from
17 reviews

Application Method
Multiple applications may be needed to achieve desired results, as initial applications may not completely eradicate all targeted plants.
Coverage Area
Garlon has been the most effective solution for controlling Blackberries, even in challenging environments like a 70-acre forest land.
Environmental Impact
It usually takes a few years before vegetation returns after using Garlon, indicating its lasting impact.
#2

Roundup Pro Herbicide Industrial Weed Control for Annual and Perennial Weeds Such As Woody Brush, Trees, and Vines, 2.5 gal.

Rating
9.1
Application Method

Most important from
687 reviews

Application Method
Be careful with overspray as it kills everything it touches.

The Roundup Pro Herbicide Industrial Weed Control is a comprehensive solution for tackling annual and perennial weeds, including woody brush, trees, and vines. With active ingredients that inhibit essential enzymes in plants and microorganisms, it promises to show visible results on most annual weeds within 2-4 days and on perennial weeds in about a week. This post-emergent herbicide is versatile, suitable for industrial, turf, ornamental, forestry, and roadside applications among others.

Its application involves diluting the water-soluble concentrate based on volume percentage, ensuring broad-spectrum control over a wide range of weeds like crabgrass, ryegrass, and bermudagrass, to name a few. However, it's important to note that it only affects emerged weeds, offering no residual control, which means that weed seeds in the soil will continue to germinate after application. The product covers an area between 400 to 4000 square feet, making it suitable for both small and extensive areas.

With a liquid volume of 2.5 gallons and a weight of 25.4 pounds, it is manageable for most users. One notable advantage is its effectiveness, but users should be prepared for the environmental impact and safety precautions typical of chemical herbicides. Careful handling and adherence to safety guidelines are essential to avoid adverse effects on non-target plants and the surrounding environment. Also, since it does not offer residual weed control, repeated applications might be necessary to manage new weed growth.

Rating
9.1
Application Method

Most important from
687 reviews

Application Method
Be careful with overspray as it kills everything it touches.
#3

Element 4 (2.5 Gallons) Triclopyr 4 Herbicide (Compare to Garlon 4 Herbicide)

Element 4 Triclopyr 4 Herbicide is a specialized product designed to tackle woody brush and broadleaf weeds. The active ingredient, Triclopyr Butoxyethyl ester at 61.6%, is known for its potency in controlling tough species like mesquite, sweetgum, and scotch broom. This product is ideal for cut-stump, basal bark, and dormant stem treatments, making it versatile for various applications.

The herbicide comes in a liquid form, with a sizeable 2.5-gallon volume, offering substantial coverage for larger areas. The recommended mix rate is between 3.2oz to 6.4oz per gallon, and its effectiveness is enhanced when combined with a bark penetrant like methylated seed oil. One notable advantage is its non-petroleum-based solvent, which reduces environmental impact compared to traditional formulations. This makes it a more environmentally friendly option without compromising on efficacy.

The product is rainfast, meaning it continues to work effectively even after rain. Safety precautions are crucial, and users should handle it carefully to avoid potential health risks. It's also significant to note that this product is not available for sale in Vermont and Minnesota. It demonstrates broad-spectrum control and increased efficacy, and users need to ensure they follow the correct mixing and application procedures for optimal results. This product is made by Corteva and was first available in October 2023, reflecting a recent and improved formulation in the market.

Buying Guide for the Best Woody Brush Killer

Choosing the right woody brush killer can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Woody brush killers are used to eliminate tough, woody plants and brush that can overtake your garden or landscape. When selecting a woody brush killer, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the most effective product for your situation. Here are the key specs you should focus on and how to navigate them.
Active IngredientsThe active ingredients in a woody brush killer determine its effectiveness against different types of plants. Common active ingredients include triclopyr, glyphosate, and imazapyr. Triclopyr is effective against broadleaf weeds and woody plants, glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide that kills most plants, and imazapyr is used for long-term control of tough vegetation. Choose an active ingredient based on the specific plants you need to control.
Application MethodWoody brush killers can be applied in various ways, including foliar spray, cut-stump treatment, and basal bark treatment. Foliar sprays are applied directly to the leaves and are suitable for smaller plants. Cut-stump treatments involve applying the herbicide to freshly cut stumps to prevent regrowth, ideal for larger trees and shrubs. Basal bark treatments are applied to the lower bark of woody plants and are effective for plants with thick bark. Select an application method that matches the size and type of vegetation you need to control.
Coverage AreaThe coverage area indicates how much land the product can treat. This is usually measured in square feet or acres. If you have a large area to treat, look for a product with a higher coverage area to ensure you have enough herbicide to complete the job. For smaller areas, a product with a lower coverage area will suffice. Assess the size of the area you need to treat to determine the appropriate coverage.
Rainfast TimeRainfast time refers to the period after application during which the herbicide needs to remain dry to be effective. This can range from a few hours to a full day. If you live in an area prone to frequent rain, choose a product with a shorter rainfast time to ensure the herbicide remains effective even if it rains shortly after application. For drier climates, rainfast time may be less of a concern.
Environmental ImpactConsider the environmental impact of the woody brush killer, including its potential effects on non-target plants, soil, and water sources. Some products are more environmentally friendly and break down quickly, while others may persist in the environment and pose risks to wildlife and water quality. If environmental impact is a concern for you, look for products labeled as eco-friendly or those with lower toxicity levels.
Safety PrecautionsSafety precautions are important to protect yourself and others when using woody brush killers. Look for products with clear safety instructions and consider the required protective gear, such as gloves, masks, and goggles. If you have pets or children, choose a product with lower toxicity and shorter re-entry intervals to minimize exposure risks. Always follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

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