There are a limited number of bioherbicides available to use in the UK and none approved for cropping systems. Bioherbicides are biopesticides that go through the same approval and registration process as all herbicide products. The term biopesticide covers three main classes of pesticide products: semiochemicals, microorganisms, and plant extracts as well as any other novel products. Bioherbicides are products that are derived from non-synthetic sources. The majority of bioherbicides come from plant extracts, such as those containing citronella oil (Barrier H) garlic oil or acids, such as vinegar. There are more biopesticides available commercially, particularly biological control agents to control pests in protected crops. However, biopesticides are still in the minority and the barriers to uptake may include lack of trust of efficacy compared to conventional pesticides, cost and specific storage requirements for some of the living active ingredients.
Document no: 15. UK_PA_BS16_bioherbicides_EN
