Use 2-4 fl oz of Tordon per gallon of water for most applications
Mix 2-4 fluid ounces of Tordon 22K or Tordon RTU per gallon of water for woody plant control. Rates vary by target species: 2 oz for light brush, 4 oz for tough stumps. Always follow label instructions for safety and efficacy. Spot treatments require lower concentrations than basal bark applications.
Recommended Mixing Ratios by Application
| Application Type | Tordon 22K (fl oz/gallon) | Tordon RTU (fl oz/gallon) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foliar Spray | 2-3 | 3-4 | Young woody plants, vines, and broadleaf weeds |
| Cut Stump Treatment | 4 (undiluted) | N/A | Freshly cut stumps (apply directly) |
| Basal Bark Spray | 4 + oil carrier | N/A | Bark treatment for thick-barked trees |
Key Factors Affecting Dosage
- Target Plant Size: Larger or mature plants require higher concentrations (up to 4 oz/gallon).
- Plant Type: Hardwoods (e.g., oak) need more herbicide than softwoods (e.g., pine).
- Water Quality: Hard water may reduce efficacy; use soft or distilled water if possible.
- Additives: For basal bark treatments, mix with diesel oil or basal oil (e.g., 25% Tordon + 75% oil).
Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
- Calculate Total Volume: Determine gallons needed (e.g., 5 gallons for 1 acre of spot treatment).
- Add Water First: Fill sprayer halfway with water to prevent foaming.
- Measure Tordon: Use a graduated cylinder for accuracy (e.g., 10 oz for 5 gallons at 2 oz/gallon).
- Mix Thoroughly: Agitate the sprayer for 1-2 minutes to ensure uniform distribution.
- Add Surfactant (if needed): Include 0.25-0.5% non-ionic surfactant for foliar applications.
Safety and Environmental Precautions
- Avoid Drift: Apply in calm weather (wind < 5 mph) to prevent damage to non-target plants.
- Protective Gear: Wear gloves, goggles, and long sleeves during mixing/applying.
- Soil Sensitivity: Tordon persists in soil; avoid areas near crops or water sources.
- Storage: Store mixed solution in a cool, dark place and use within 24 hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overdosing: Exceeding 4 oz/gallon wastes product and increases environmental risk.
- Under-mixing: Uneven distribution causes patchy control or plant regrowth.
- Wrong Timing: Apply during active growth (spring/early summer) for best results.
- Ignoring Label: Some species (e.g., grasses) are resistant; check compatibility first.