Round Up vs Ortho: Which Weed Killer Reigns Supreme?
Tired of weeds taking over your beautiful lawn and garden? You’re not alone! Millions of homeowners face the same battle, and the right weed killer can make all the difference. Choosing the best product can be overwhelming, with so many options available.
Two of the most popular names in the fight against weeds are Round Up and Ortho. Both brands have a long history of helping people rid their properties of unwanted plants. But which one is the right choice for your specific needs and situation?
This comparison dives deep into Round Up vs Ortho, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and key differences. We’ll examine their ingredients, effectiveness, safety, and ease of use to help you make an informed decision and reclaim your outdoor space.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | round up | ortho |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Glyphosate | Various |
| Mode of Action | Non-selective | Selective/Non-selective |
| Application Method | Spraying | Spraying/Pouring |
| Weed Control | Broad Spectrum | Varies by product |
| Pre-emergent | No | Sometimes |
| Post-emergent | Yes | Yes |
| Systemic | Yes | Varies |
| Contact | No | Sometimes |
| Rainfast Time | 30 minutes – 4 hours | Varies |
| Use on Lawns | No | Some formulations |
| Residual Activity | No | Varies |
| Availability | Widely available | Widely available |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Active Ingredient
- Round Up: Contains glyphosate, a broad-spectrum herbicide that disrupts plant growth by inhibiting an enzyme essential for amino acid synthesis. Pros: Highly effective on a wide range of weeds. Cons: Can potentially affect non-target plants if not applied carefully, and there are environmental concerns regarding its use.
- Ortho: Often contains multiple active ingredients, including glyphosate and other herbicides like 2,4-D or triclopyr, offering a broader range of weed control. Pros: Can target a wider variety of weeds than glyphosate alone. Cons: Increased risk of harming non-target plants due to the presence of multiple herbicides.
- Winner: Tie
Application Method
- Round Up: Typically applied as a foliar spray, absorbed through the leaves and stems. Pros: Easy to apply with various sprayers. Cons: Requires careful application to avoid drift and contact with desirable plants.
- Ortho: Similar to round up, applied as a foliar spray. Some formulations also come in ready-to-use sprayers. Pros: Convenient and readily available. Cons: Requires careful application to avoid drift and contact with desirable plants.
- Winner: Tie
Weed Control Spectrum
- Round Up: Effective against a broad spectrum of weeds, including grasses and broadleaf weeds. Pros: Versatile for various weed infestations. Cons: May require multiple applications for persistent weeds.
- Ortho: Can target a wider variety of weeds, including those resistant to glyphosate. Pros: Excellent for mixed weed populations. Cons: Some formulations may be less effective on certain weed types.
- Winner: ortho
Selectivity
- Round Up: Non-selective, meaning it kills most plants it comes into contact with. Pros: Effective for total vegetation control. Cons: Requires careful application to avoid contact with desirable plants.
- Ortho: While often broad-spectrum, some formulations can be slightly more selective, but generally still non-selective. Pros: Can be used for targeted weed control in certain situations. Cons: Requires careful application.
- Winner: Tie
Persistence in Soil
- Round Up: Glyphosate binds strongly to soil particles and is broken down by soil microorganisms. Pros: Relatively short persistence, minimizing residual effects. Cons: Can still affect plants growing in the treated area if it is not broken down fast enough.
- Ortho: Persistence varies depending on the specific formulation and active ingredients. Some ingredients may persist longer than glyphosate. Pros: May provide longer-lasting weed control in certain cases. Cons: Increased risk of soil contamination and potential harm to non-target plants.
- Winner: round up
Environmental Impact
- Round Up: Glyphosate is a controversial herbicide. Concerns exist regarding its potential impact on biodiversity and water quality. Pros: Relatively low toxicity to animals. Cons: Environmental concerns regarding glyphosate resistance in weeds and potential health effects.
- Ortho: Environmental impact varies depending on the active ingredients. Some ingredients may pose greater risks than glyphosate alone. Pros: May provide more targeted weed control minimizing environmental impact. Cons: Potential for greater environmental harm depending on active ingredients.
- Winner: round up
Ease of Use
- Round Up: Generally easy to use, with clear instructions and readily available formulations. Pros: Wide availability and ease of application. Cons: Requires careful handling to avoid drift.
- Ortho: Similarly easy to use, with various formulations available. Pros: Convenience and ease of use. Cons: Requires following specific instructions for each formulation.
- Winner: Tie
Cost
- Round Up: Generally competitively priced, offering good value for its effectiveness. Pros: Affordable for many users. Cons: Price can vary based on concentration and formulation.
- Ortho: Price varies depending on the formulation and active ingredients. Pros: Wide variety of options. Cons: May be more expensive than single-ingredient glyphosate products.
- Winner: round up
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Broad Spectrum Weed Control | round up |
| Selective Weed Control | ortho |
| Overall Value | Tie |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
| Pre-Emergent Weed Control | ortho |
What They Have in Common:
- Weed Killing: Both product types are designed to kill unwanted plants, making them essential for weed control in gardens and lawns.
- Application: Both round up and ortho products are generally applied by spraying the foliage of the weeds.
- Convenience: Both offer convenient solutions for weed management, allowing homeowners to effectively tackle weed problems.
- Availability: Both are available from most garden centers and hardware stores.
- Variety: Both product lines offer a variety of formulations to target different types of weeds and application needs.
Round Up Vs Ortho Buying Guide
Herbicide Type and Effectiveness
When selecting a weed killer, understanding the herbicide type is crucial. Round Up, primarily using glyphosate, is a broad-spectrum, systemic herbicide, meaning it’s absorbed through the leaves and travels throughout the plant, killing the entire weed, including the roots. Ortho products, while also offering broad-spectrum options, may utilize different active ingredients or combinations, sometimes offering both systemic and contact herbicides. Consider the type of weeds you’re targeting and the desired level of control. If you need complete eradication, a systemic herbicide like Round Up is often preferred. Contact herbicides will kill only the parts of the plant they touch.
Application and Safety Considerations
Application methods and safety precautions are vital. Both Round Up and Ortho products require careful application to prevent drift and protect desirable plants. Always read and follow the product label instructions. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, eye protection, and potentially a mask. Consider the weather conditions, avoiding windy days to minimize drift. Ortho products often provide specific instructions for various application methods, such as spot treatments or broadcast spraying. Understand the reentry time for both products before allowing people or pets in the treated area.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
The environmental impact is a significant factor. Glyphosate, the active ingredient in many Round Up formulations, has faced scrutiny regarding its potential environmental effects. Consider the impact on soil health, water sources, and beneficial insects. Ortho offers a range of products, including some with potentially different environmental profiles. Research the specific ingredients and their environmental consequences. Explore sustainable alternatives like organic herbicides or manual weeding if minimizing environmental impact is a priority. Choose products that minimize runoff and degradation of the soil.
Target Weeds and Plant Compatibility
Identifying the specific weeds you need to control is critical. Round Up is effective against a wide variety of weeds, but some resistant species have emerged. Ortho products often target specific weeds or weed types, making them suitable for certain situations. Consider the type of plants you are trying to protect. Some herbicides can damage desirable plants if they come into contact. Carefully review the product labels to ensure compatibility with your desired plants. Research the weeds present in your area and choose a product that effectively targets them.
Cost and Value for Money
Cost-effectiveness is essential when selecting a weed killer. Compare the price per unit and the area it covers. Round Up and Ortho products come in various sizes and formulations, affecting the overall cost. Consider the concentration of the active ingredient and the required application rate to determine the best value. Evaluate the long-term cost. Systemic herbicides like Round Up may provide more lasting control, potentially reducing the frequency of applications. Evaluate the amount of product needed to treat the target area and compare prices accordingly.
Formulation and Ease of Use
Ease of use is crucial for a successful application. Round Up and Ortho products are available in ready-to-use sprays, concentrates, and other formulations. Consider the convenience and the equipment needed for application. Ready-to-use sprays are easy to apply but may be more expensive. Concentrates require mixing but are often more economical. Consider the application method best suited for your needs. Some products come with applicators that can make the process easier. Choose a formulation that is easy to use and provides the desired level of control.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy round up If…
- You need to kill all vegetation in an area.
- You want a product that is effective against a wide range of weeds.
- You are looking for a product that is relatively fast-acting.
- You are comfortable with using a non-selective herbicide.
Buy ortho If…
- You want to kill specific weeds while preserving your lawn.
- You prefer a product with pre-emergent capabilities.
- You are looking for products that are designed for specific plants.
- You want a product that offers a variety of solutions for different weed types and scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between systemic and contact herbicides?
Systemic herbicides, like glyphosate in Round Up, are absorbed by the plant and move throughout its system, killing the entire plant, including the roots. Contact herbicides only kill the plant parts they touch, offering quicker results for visible foliage but may not eliminate the root system, potentially leading to regrowth. Choose based on the weed type and desired control level.
How long does it take for Round Up and Ortho products to work?
The time it takes to see results varies. Round Up typically shows visible effects within 2-4 days, with full kill taking up to 2 weeks, depending on the weed and weather. Ortho products have varying speeds of action, depending on the active ingredients and formulation. Always follow product instructions for best results. Some contact herbicides show immediate effects.
Are Round Up and Ortho products safe for pets and children?
Both products require caution around pets and children. It is essential to keep them away from treated areas until the product is completely dry. Always read and follow the label instructions carefully. Some products may have specific reentry times. Consider using pet-safe or child-safe alternatives if you have concerns about exposure.
Can Round Up and Ortho products be used on lawns?
Whether you can use these products on lawns depends on the product and the grass type. Some Round Up and Ortho products are specifically formulated for use on lawns, while others are not. Always check the product label for compatibility with your grass type. Use caution to avoid damaging desirable grass. Read labels carefully to ensure it’s safe for your lawn.
What are the best application methods for Round Up and Ortho?
Application methods vary depending on the product and the target weeds. Spot treatments are often used for small areas or individual weeds. Broadcast spraying is suitable for larger areas. Ensure accurate application. Use a sprayer with an adjustable nozzle. Avoid spraying on windy days to minimize drift. Follow the specific instructions provided on the product label.
What should I do if I accidentally spray Round Up or Ortho on a desirable plant?
If accidental contact occurs, rinse the affected plant immediately with water to dilute the herbicide. Pruning away damaged leaves may also help. Monitor the plant for signs of stress or damage. If the damage is severe, the plant may not recover. Prevention is key; always apply herbicides carefully, and protect your desired plants.
How do I dispose of empty Round Up and Ortho containers?
Follow local regulations for disposing of empty herbicide containers. Rinse empty containers thoroughly. Dispose of them according to local guidelines. Some communities offer hazardous waste collection programs. Check the product label and local environmental agencies for specific disposal instructions. Avoid discarding containers in a way that could contaminate the environment.
Final Verdict
Choosing between Round Up and Ortho depends on your specific needs. Round Up provides broad-spectrum control and is effective for complete weed eradication. Ortho offers a range of products with various active ingredients, targeting specific weeds, and often providing more environmentally-friendly options. Consider the type of weeds, your safety concerns, and the environmental impact. Both have their strengths, but Round Up’s comprehensive action often provides the best overall weed control.
Winner: Round Up