Question
Hello,
I own a palm tree farm/nursery in Florida.  I have heard quite a debate lately on the effects of Glyphosate/Roundup. I know its not supposed to move through soil or damage any plant if it doesn't come in contact with the foliage.  However, some growers insist it stunts the trees growth.  If you have any information on this topic it would be greatly appreciated, as Roundup is great for weed control.
Thank you for your time,
Matt Butler


Answer
No it will not move through the soil but is a contact herbicide that will kill any plant if sprayed on the green parts. It can be sprayed on the trunk as long as there is no green. On young plams where the trunk has not harden of and still has some green shade it may stun the growth. But as long as it is kept off the foliage it is ok. I think the concentration is the key--read the label and use what is recommended. Some folks use the rule that if a little is good a lot is better. Always use the rate the manufacture recommends and you will not have a problem.