How to Use Pokon Tegen Onkruid Concentraat Natural: A Step-by-Step Guide

Pokon Tegen Onkruid Concentraat Natural is a natural, non-selective weed killer concentrate designed to quickly and effectively control the above-ground parts of annual weeds (such as nettles, ground elder, thistles, and clover), grasses, and moss. It's based on pelargonic acid (nonaanzuur, 500 g/l), a naturally occurring fatty acid that breaks down rapidly in the soil, making it suitable for organic gardening. This product is ideal for use on open hard surfaces (like gravel or shells), semi-open hard surfaces (tiles or paving stones), and unpaved areas. It's not systemic, so it targets foliage but may not fully kill deep roots—multiple applications might be needed for regrowth. Visible effects appear within 3 hours, and replanting is possible after 1 day. Available in sizes like 225 ml (covers ~100 m²), 450 ml, or 900 ml (covers ~400 m²). Always read the full product label and download the official etiket from the Pokon website for the latest details, as regulations may vary by region (approved under toelatingsnummer 15369 N in the Netherlands/Belgium). It's glyphosate-free and breaks down quickly, but use it responsibly to avoid harming desirable plants or the environment.

Step 1: Identify the Problem and Prepare

• Assess the Area: Target annual weeds, grasses, or moss on suitable surfaces like paths, driveways, gravel beds, or bare soil. Avoid using near desirable plants, as it's non-selective and will damage any green foliage it contacts. It's best for actively growing weeds in spring/summer, but can be used year-round.
• Check Timing and Weather: Apply year-round with a minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F). For moss, treat only in autumn or spring. Choose a mild day without rain or wind—rain within 3 hours after application can reduce effectiveness. Avoid hot, sunny conditions or direct sunlight immediately after spraying.
• Gather Supplies:
• The concentrate bottle (shake well before use).
• A pressure sprayer (druckspruit; not a watering can) for even application—avoid pouring or using a gieter to prevent runoff.
• Measuring cap or syringe for dosing (the bottle often includes a maatdop).
• Clean water (fresh, not chlorinated if possible).
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, long sleeves, pants, safety goggles, and closed-toe shoes. A mask is recommended for mixing to avoid inhalation.
• Safety First: Keep children and pets away from the area until dry (about 24 hours). Do not use on edible crops or near water sources. Store the product frost-free, out of reach of children and animals. Not for human or animal consumption. If contact occurs, rinse with water; seek medical advice if irritation persists.

Step 2: Calculate the Dosage

• General Rate: Dosage depends on the target and area. One 225 ml bottle treats about 100 m²; 450 ml treats ~200 m²; 900 ml treats ~400 m².
• For Annual Weeds: 22.5 ml concentrate per 0.30–0.75 liters of water per 10 m². This wets the weeds thoroughly without excessive dripping.
• For Moss: 18 ml concentrate per 0.30–1.0 liters of water per 10 m².
• How to Scale: For larger areas, multiply accordingly (e.g., for 50 m² of weeds: 112.5 ml concentrate in 1.5–3.75 liters water). Do not exceed recommended rates to avoid waste or environmental impact. Do not mix with other herbicides.
• Tip: Start with the lower water volume for denser weed coverage. For spot treatment on small areas, mix a smaller batch.

Step 3: Mix the Product

• Equipment: Use a clean pressure sprayer (1–5 liter capacity for small jobs; larger for fields). Rinse it thoroughly if previously used.
• Mixing Instructions:
1. Shake the concentrate bottle vigorously.
2. Measure the required amount using the bottle's cap (maatdop) or a syringe.
3. Fill the sprayer halfway with water.
4. Add the measured concentrate.
5. Top up with water to the desired volume (e.g., 0.75 liters for 10 m²).
6. Close the sprayer and agitate/shake well for 10–15 seconds to create a homogeneous mixture. Use within 24 hours for best results.
• Tip: Mix only what you need to avoid leftovers. If mixing for a large area, do it in batches to ensure even dilution.

Step 4: Apply the Herbicide

• Method:
1. Pump the sprayer to build pressure.
2. Hold the nozzle 20–30 cm from the target and spray evenly, wetting only the weeds' foliage (leaves and stems). Aim for thorough coverage without runoff or dripping onto soil or nearby plants—bevochtig enkel de onkruiden.
3. For broadcast application on larger areas, walk steadily and overlap slightly for uniform coverage.
4. For spot treatment, target individual weeds precisely.
• Application Tips:

1. Use a coarse spray nozzle for better penetration.
2. Apply to dry weeds for optimal absorption.
3. Avoid overspray: Use a shield (e.g., cardboard) near desirable areas to prevent drift.
4. One application is usually enough for above-ground kill, but reapply after 1–2 weeks if regrowth appears (up to 2–4 times per season max).

• Coverage Example: For 10 m², the mixed solution should cover the area evenly, focusing on weed density.

Step 5: Monitor and Follow Up

• Observe Results: Weeds should wilt and show effects within 3 hours; full above-ground death in 1–3 days. Moss may take longer. The active ingredient degrades quickly in soil, so no long-term residue.
• Reapplication: If roots survive or new weeds emerge, reapply after 7–14 days under the same conditions. Rotate with manual weeding or mulching for prevention.
• Waiting Periods: Replant or seed after 1 day. For edible areas, wait until weeds are dead and rinse if needed. Keep the area dry for 3 hours post-application.
• Record Keeping: Note the date, dosage, and results to track effectiveness and comply with any local regs.

Step 6: Clean Up and Storage

• Cleanup:
1. After use, spray any remaining mixture onto weeds or bare soil (not near water or plants).
2. Triple-rinse the sprayer with clean water and dispose of rinse water on untreated ground.
3. Empty containers: Rinse and recycle per local guidelines; do not contaminate water sources.
• Storage: Seal the bottle tightly and store in a cool, dry, frost-free place (above 0°C). Shelf life is typically 2 years if unopened. Keep away from food, children, and pets.
• Disposal: Use the entire product if possible. For empties, follow local waste rules—do not pour down drains.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

• Personal Safety: Wear PPE during mixing and application to avoid skin/eye irritation from the acid-based formula. Wash hands and exposed skin immediately after use. If swallowed or inhaled, seek medical help. Not for use by pregnant women or those with sensitivities.
• Environmental Impact: Pelargonic acid is biodegradable and low-risk to bees, birds, and soil microbes when used as directed. However, avoid application near water bodies (maintain a 1–2 meter buffer) to prevent runoff. It's suitable for organic use but can harm aquatic life if it enters streams. Do not apply during bee-active times.
• Health Notes: As a natural product, it's safer than synthetic alternatives, but concentrated acids can cause burns—handle with care. Follow EU/Dutch regulations (e.g., Ctgb guidelines).

Additional Tips for Beginners

• Enhance Effectiveness: Apply to young, actively growing weeds for faster results. Combine with cultural practices like mulching or regular mowing to prevent weed establishment.
• Where to Buy: Available at garden centers like Gamma, Karwei, or online via Pokon.nl, Bol.com, or Tuinshop.nl. Check for "Natural" or "Bio" labeling.
• Alternatives: For tougher perennials, consider Pokon Tegen Hardnekkig Onkruid Concentraat. For ready-to-use, try Pokon Tegen Onkruid Spray.
• Eco-Friendly Aspect: This product's natural breakdown makes it a good choice for sustainable gardening, but use integrated methods (e.g., manual removal) to minimize applications.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Wrong Weather: Applying in rain, wind, or below 15°C reduces efficacy.
• Over-Wetting: Too much runoff wastes product and risks drift to non-target areas.
• Using on Wrong Surfaces: Not for lawns or near edibles—stick to hard/unpaved areas.
• Not Mixing Properly: Uneven dilution leads to poor results; always shake and agitate.
• Ignoring PPE: Acid concentrates can irritate skin—don't skip protection.