POMAIS
Can You Spray Clethodim on Soybeans? A Practical Guide for Distributors and Growers
If you're distributing herbicides to soybean producers or advising agricultural retailers, one essential question often comes up: Can clethodim be safely used on soybeans for grass weed control? The short answer is yes — with the right approach, clethodim is a selective and highly effective post-emergent herbicide for soybeans.
Why Use Clethodim on Soybeans?
Clethodim is an ACCase-inhibiting herbicide used primarily for controlling annual and perennial grass weeds. It is absorbed through the foliage and translocated throughout the plant, ultimately inhibiting the synthesis of fatty acids required for growth in grass species.
For soybean fields, which are broadleaf crops, clethodim presents no phytotoxic risk when applied according to label instructions.
Advantages of Clethodim Use on Soybeans
- Selective Control of Grass Weeds: Targets barnyardgrass, foxtail, crabgrass, witchgrass, johnsongrass, and quackgrass.
- Excellent Crop Safety: Safe for use on soybeans without harming the crop.
- Compatibility with IPM: Supports integrated pest management and resistance prevention strategies.
Application Recommendations
| Parameter | Recommended Practice |
|---|---|
| Formulations | Clethodim 12% EC, Clethodim 24% EC |
| Timing | Post-emergence when grass weeds are in the 2–6 leaf stage |
| Application Rate | 0.25 – 0.35 L/ha depending on weed type and density |
| Adjuvants | Use with crop oil concentrate or non-ionic surfactants |
| Rainfastness | Allow at least 1 hour before rainfall |
| PHI (Pre-Harvest Interval) | Typically 60 days (refer to label) |
Important Use Tips
- Do not tank mix with ALS inhibitors to avoid antagonism.
- Avoid spraying during drought or heat stress conditions.
- Always include a recommended adjuvant for maximum efficacy.
Why Distributors Should Offer Clethodim
For ag-input retailers and distributors, clethodim represents a key post-emergent tool for soybean growers facing weed pressure:
- Solves glyphosate resistance issues in fields with resistant grass weeds.
- Cost-effective and flexible—ideal for smallholder and commercial farms.
- Tank-mix compatible with broadleaf herbicides for total weed control programs.
Final Thoughts: Should You Recommend Clethodim?
Absolutely. Clethodim is a proven, effective solution for selectively controlling grassy weeds in soybean fields. Its systemic action, excellent crop safety, and ease of application make it a must-have herbicide in your portfolio.
At POMAIS, we offer Clethodim in multiple concentrations and packaging types to match regional market needs. We also support our distributors with OEM services, multilingual labeling, and technical training for product promotion.
Get in Touch with POMAIS
Need clethodim for your soybean clients? Contact us today to explore bulk options and distributor support services tailored to your local markets.