What’s holding bioherbicides back?
Abstract
Publication: Chemical & Engineering News
Despite growing interest in bioherbicides as an alternative to synthetic weed killers, their adoption remains slow due to cost, inconsistent performance, and limited weed targets. Farmers have long relied on chemical herbicides like glyphosate and dicamba, but herbicide-resistant weeds are driving demand for new solutions. Startups are now developing fungal-based and microbial herbicides with novel modes of action to address this challenge.
One success story is Toothpick Company, which developed a Fusarium-based bioherbicide that helps Kenyan farmers combat Striga, a parasitic weed. However, bioherbicide commercialization remains difficult, as many products take too long to work, require high application rates, or lack residual activity.
Industry experts emphasize that biological solutions won’t replace chemicals overnight, but advancements in AI, machine learning, and formulation technology could accelerate progress. Education and realistic expectations will be key in integrating bioherbicides into modern weed management strategies.
