Bioherbicides:essential oils and weed management

Weeds pose significant challenges to agriculture, causing yield losses and increasing costs. Traditional synthetic herbicides have long been the primary solution due to their high efficacy. However, their overuse has raised environmental and health concerns, and prompted stricter regulatory controls, such as those outlined in the European Green Deal. These factors have intensified the search for sustainable alternatives, including bioherbicides derived from natural compounds like organic acids and essential oils. This research evaluates the potential of organic acids and essential oils for weed management under various experimental conditions. Acetic acid emerged as a promising bioherbicide due to its ability to disrupt plant cell membranes, leading to rapid desiccation and effective weed suppression. Its low environmental persistence and potential for cost-effective production as an industrial byproduct enhance its appeal. Similarly, pelargonic acid demonstrated high efficacy, though its widespread use is hindered by production costs. Essential oils, while effective in some combinations, require further exploration due to their variable performance. The experiments revealed interspecies differences in sensitivity, with dicotyledonous weeds more susceptible than monocotyledons. Application timing and weed growth stages significantly influenced efficacy, as did environmental factors like temperature and evaporation rates. Higher application volumes improved effectiveness, but rapid evaporation limited the field-scale applicability of treatments. Adjuvants such as Camelina oil, chitosan, and essential oils showed potential in enhancing acetic acid’s performance, particularly at lower concentrations. However, they did not consistently outperform acetic acid alone, emphasizing the need for further optimization. Despite its potential, organic acids and essential oils require multiple applications and careful timing to maximize its impact. Its role as a bioherbicide could be particularly valuable in organic and small-scale farming systems. Future research should focus on optimizing formulations, refining application strategies, and integrating acetic acid into broader sustainable weed management programs to enhance its viability as an eco-friendly alternative.