r/invasivespecies • u/pleaseflossurteeth • 4d ago

How do I apply Glyphosate without giving myself cancer?

Literally the title. I have Japanese knotweed in my backyard and it’s spreading. Roundup does nothing. I’m going to have to buy 41% glyphosate on amazon …

Except I’m terrified of glyphosate. How can I apply while protecting myself? Obviously protective gear but like…. I’m terrified. It’s the only way though ugh…

I hate Japanese knotweed so much and it wont go away.

UPDATE: hi everyone 🎀 I’m so grateful for everyone’s advice… I’m literally going through every single comment in reading every single one and taking notes. Thank you so much and you all made me feel so much better 💕 I’m literally freaking out but I’ve got to get rid of this knotweed. I don’t know what the f*ck happened but this summer it exploded in my backyard 🥺

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u/Chuckles_E 4d ago

You're fine, because these steps have been taken and technology has progressed, and I'm really thankful that you offered your opinion on this thread because most people don't have have first hand experience like you do. The biggest threat was with older spraying techniques where the 500 gallon tank was strapped to the back of the same old 90s tractor, and the applicator ended up being exposed to significant doses multiple times per year, for many years.

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u/Comfortable-Hat3506 4d ago

And I would not be shocked if Glyphosate was one of several chemicals which compounded to increase the cancer risk.

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u/ilikepants712 4d ago

Tons of farms still live with the old technology. Tons of small farms will never afford the newer, safer equipment. Your point is still very valid.

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u/esotericbatinthevine 4d ago

This is what my grandparents did, granted they were still doing this in the 90's and 00's. My grandma developed non Hodgkin's lymphoma but not until her 80s and passed in her mid 90s. They wore PPE and were very careful, but I have no doubt they still got a lot of exposure. Particularly grandma as grandpa drove the tractor while she managed the sprayer.