Pre-emergent herbicide with novel sterol-based mode of action for grass weed control
Introducing a pre-emergent herbicide that inhibits root growth in small-seeded grass weeds through a novel sterol-based mechanism, effective in both organic and non-organic farming. Proven effective in greenhouse tests against barnyard grass and more.
Overview
This innovative pre-emergent herbicide offers a breakthrough in grass weed control by employing a novel mode of action based on sterol inhibition. Specifically designed to inhibit the root growth of small-seeded grass and broadleaf weeds post-germination, this solution leverages solubilized beta-sitosterol and cholesterol to interfere with plant sterol availability. It promises significant advantages in both organic and conventional farming systems, with proven greenhouse efficacy against barnyard grass, sprangletop, and crabgrass.
Technical specifications
- Active Ingredients: Solubilized beta-sitosterol and cholesterol
- Formulation: 45% w/w enriched preparation, dried and resolubilized for spray application
- Efficacy: Demonstrated superior effectiveness compared to existing organic pre-emergents like Preen/corn gluten, and competitive with microtubule inhibitors such as oryzalin and pendimethalin
- Crop Compatibility: Safe for use with large-seeded crops like corn
- Target Weeds: Effective against barnyard grass, sprangletop, and crabgrass
- Application: Designed for pre-emergent soil sub-surface spray application
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, having been validated in laboratory and greenhouse settings. Ongoing efforts are focused on optimizing formulations and conducting further field trials to ensure efficacy across various soil types and conditions. Comprehensive testing over two growing seasons is planned to refine application timing and formulation stability.
About Texas A&M University, College Station
Texas A&M University in College Station is a comprehensive public research university and the flagship of The Texas A&M University System, combining broad academic strengths with a strong applied‑research culture. Industry collaborates on the Texas A&M‑RELLIS campus—an integrated education, research and testing environment that supports large‑scale experimentation and proving grounds—and through the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s facilities in Bryan‑College Station. A statewide extension network connects university expertise to companies and communities across all Texas counties, enabling rapid piloting and deployment. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA and DoD, alongside state and industry sponsorship. Texas A&M Innovation provides IP management, licensing and commercialization pathways across the system.
delivered to your inbox.