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Recent lawsuits against Roundup has consumers looking for alternatives

Posted at 4:42 PM, May 20, 2019
and last updated 2019-05-20 18:42:06-04

JOHNSON COUNTY, Kan. — It's weed season, but as more people claim a popular weed killer gave them cancer, many are looking for more environmentally-friendly options.

But, people nationally are claiming the Roundup gave them cancer.

Now, some are tossing it aside.

"It's been a go-to product for a long, long time and now we need to change it," Jeff Taylor, application manager for Martz Brothers Lawn Care, said.

The company has always used glyphosate. Now, they are testing out a replacement.

"You don't know what can get you," Taylor said. "When you hear about it, you have to make a change."

Those interested in avoiding Roundup but still getting rid of weeds have options.

Growers can start by doing it by hand with a weeder hoe.

Dennis Patton with the K-State Extension Office said another alternative is using fire.

"One option is you have sidewalks, or where bricks come up, you can use flames," Patton said. "Get a butane torch and you can go down and torch those weeds."

Patton said mulch is also your friend.

"Two to three inches with chip mulch is probably going to suppress about 80 to 90 percent or more of the weed grow," he said.

Patton uses this option when it comes to landscapes with trees, shrubs and flowers.

The extension office has also seen people trying to use an at-home mixture that includes salt, soap and vinegar. Patton said it's not a good solution.

"Those can actually be more damaging to you," he said. "Your best opinion as a home owner is hand control or a mulch material in your garden to help prevent the weeds."