Chemical Application

Chemical application for weed control in tree or shrub plantings is offered by the Cass County Soil Conservation District. The chemicals offered for application by the district are limited to Casoron® or Roundup®

Casoron® is a 4G, a granule pre-emergent. Casoron® is applied to tree rows using a 4-wheel ATV or tractor with granular spreaders to prevent grass and weeds from emerging the following spring. This chemical is applied to the surface of the ground around the trees after the ground cools to a temperature of less than 50°F. After application, Casoron lays dormant until activated the next spring when the temperature of the ground rises to above 50°F (just about the same time grass and weeds decide to start growing).

Roundup® is a non-selective herbicide used to kill unwanted grasses and weeds.  when applied to plant foliage, it is absorbed and then translocated throughout plant tissues.  Once inside the plant, Glyphosate (the active ingredient) inhibits the production of an enzyme, called EPSP synthase, which in turn prevents the plant from manufacturing certain aromatic amino acids essential for plant growth and life.  Glyphosate interrupts the metabolic process in plants, so its effect may not be visible for about four days in annual plants and up to seven days in perennial plants.  After application, the plant wilts and turns yellow, and then turns brown as the plant tissue deteriorates. At the same time, Glyphosate decomposes the plant’s underground roots and rhizomes.  Ultimately, the entire plant dies, is incapable of regenerating, and enriches the soil as it decomposes.

2010 Chemical Application Price:

Casoron®
$12.00 per 100 linear feet
*NOTE: there is a minimum charge of $100.00 for Casoron application.

Roundup®
$5.00 per 100 hundred linear feet (NOT including the cost of Roundup chemical)
*NOTE: there is a minimum charge of $50.00 for Roundup application

If you are interested in chemical application for your tree rows, contact our District Technician to schedule an appointment at 701.282.2157 extension 3 or by email

*All chemicals need to be ordered in advance so schedule your appointment today!

Updated 12/18/2009