Pesticides: Corn Gluten Meal

Common Brand Names:

Chemical Action and Usages: Corn gluten meal is a powdery or granulated by-product of the wet milling process of corn, and works as a natural rather than chemical based pre-emergence herbicide. It was discovered at Iowa State University that corn gluten meal had this potential and the first patent for such a use was issued in 1991. It works by inhibiting the root formation of germinating plants and must be applied before the germination of the weed. The weed will germinate and form a shoot, but the corn gluten meal will keep roots from forming and the seedling will die. Corn gluten meal is also naturally about 10% nitrogen by weight. It is non-selective; therefore it will kill any germinating seed, even those that may be desirable to you. Corn gluten meal has a 4-6 week residual. Different brands make varying claims as to the limitations and effectiveness of their product.

Cautions/Instructions: Read the label carefully of the brand and formulation you have selected. Apply the product according to the directions on the label. Do not use this product when seeding a new lawn or reseeding an existing one. In gardens, only use in and around plants with an established root system. Consistent rain or irrigation after the application of the product and germination of the target weed may reduce the effectiveness of the product.

Toxicity: When used as directed, these products are not considered harmful to beneficial insects, soil organisms or to pond or stream life. Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction of inhalation of the dust.