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Spruce weed & grass killer #893917

Asked March 09, 2025, 9:41 AM EDT


Good Housekeeping has a big add for a new weedkiller Spruce Weed and Grass killer: https://spruceit.com/why-spruce  Is it effective? Can we use it in Maryland? Does it leave residue in the soil? It's main ingredients are cornmint oil, geraniol and sodium lauryl sulfate. I read where cornmint oil can be used as an insecticide, so will it kill pollinators and other beneficial insects? Hard to find any info out there since it's so new.

Thanks!

Montgomery County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

It appears like this type of herbicide will mostly burn the foliage of plants and cause them to die back to the ground. It is not a systemic so it will probably not kill the roots of most weeds that have extensive root systems (anything with a tap root like Dandelions or thistle, or something like Creeping Charlie/Ground Ivy). 

If you are target spraying and not broadcasting over a large area, the likelihood of harming any insects is very low. It will probably leave some residue as most products do but if the application amount is low, it will dilute quickly with any rain water.

Be sure to follow the label directions. We have never tested this product so are not aware of how effective it will be. If it is just burning the top growth, you may have to do multiple applications for it to kill certain weeds. If you can, hand digging would be the least harmful way to remove them. Since the product page under the FAQs states it is exempt from EPA federal registration, it means that it has little to no risk to human or environmental health, or its so low it isn't a concern. 

Let us know if you have further questions. 

Emily

Thanks, looks like it's similar to horticultural vinegar. 

The Question Asker Replied March 10, 2025, 2:10 PM EDT

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