Southern Ag Surfactant for Herbicides
Southern Ag Surfactant for Herbicides is an 80% non-ionic surfactant used as a wetting agent with many herbicide sprays. It helps reduce the surface tension of water so spray droplets spread more evenly across leaf surfaces, improving herbicide coverage and penetration. Southern Ag lists it for use with many herbicide sprays, including Trimec®, Atrazine, Brush Killer, and 2,4-D Amine.
Mixing rate:
Use 1–2 teaspoons per gallon of spray solution. This is roughly equivalent to 1–2 pints per 100 gallons. Southern Ag’s current product page lists the rate as 1–2 teaspoons per gallon of water.
Hand sprayer conversions:
| Spray volume |
Surfactant amount |
| 1 gallon |
1–2 tsp |
| 2 gallons |
2–4 tsp |
| 3 gallons |
1–2 Tbsp |
| 4 gallons |
4–8 tsp |
| 5 gallons |
5–10 tsp |
A surfactant is not a weed killer by itself; it is an adjuvant added to certain herbicide mixes to improve spreading, coverage, and sometimes uptake. Extension guidance notes that surfactants reduce surface tension between the spray droplet and leaf surface, which can increase herbicide absorption.
Use it only when the herbicide label allows or recommends a non-ionic surfactant. Some herbicides already contain surfactants, and using the wrong adjuvant can reduce performance or increase turf crop injury. Purdue Extension specifically notes that some pesticide labels recommend surfactants, while others say not to add surfactants or warn of possible injury. EPA guidance also notes that pesticide labels include legally required directions for use, including a statement that using a product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling violates federal law.
For complete product information, please refer to the label below:
Product Label
