Dalapon

Dalapon is a commonly used herbicide for the control of annual and perennial grasses in croplands. It can be distributed either via aerial or ground equipment for foliage application. Some of the common croplands that have benefitted from dalapon application include sugarcane, corn, potatoes, certain legume crops, citrus, fruit, and nut trees as well as a variety of other noncrop lands. Dalapon is used extensively in the western United States to control a variety of grasses such as Bermuda, Johnson, Crab, and Quack grasses. Dalapon is translocated to the roots, where it acts as a growth regulator. Although highly soluble with ability to readily move through the environment, dalapon is relative safe and instances of dalapon intoxication are rare. The primary sources of toxicity are contact with the sodium or magnesium salt of dalapon, which is an irritant to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Cases of elevated levels of dalapon in drinking water or groundwater have also been rare, and little toxicity has been reported following dalapon exposure in water. Individuals who were exposed to high levels for extended periods of time can experience kidney dysfunction. Collectively, dalapon is a relatively safe herbicide for the control of many annual and perennial grasses.