Crop Defoliants: Balancing Efficiency and Sustainability
Crop defoliants are chemicals used to induce leaf drop, aiding in harvest efficiency. In cotton farming, defoliants help expose bolls, making them easier to pick and reducing leaf contamination in the fibre. However, as environmental concerns grow, alternatives to traditional chemical defoliants, such as organic and electric defoliation methods, are becoming more appealing. Sustainable defoliation practices help maintain soil health and minimise chemical residues, promoting cleaner production. As the industry moves toward more eco-friendly practices, farmers are exploring crop defoliants that offer the best balance between efficiency, crop health, and environmental sustainability.