Granular Herbicides: Lessons from a Newcomer to Utility Forestry

As someone that has recently graduated from college with a degree in chemistry and no
experience in the world of utility forestry, I had no idea what to expect when I started to
learn about the benefits of SSI Maxim of Tennessee LLC’s granular herbicides. The
two biggest advantages of granular products that I saw immediately were that there was
no mixing needed and that they provide season long control.

With SSI Maxim’s granular products being ready to use, they are perfect for use in
remote locations where water is not easily accessible. The ability to apply herbicide dry
and eliminate the need to mix herbicides on site is such a unique advantage that SSI
Maxim of TN LLC products can offer. By eliminating the need for hauling water and
mixing chemicals on site it makes the application process much safer for both the
applicators and the environment. There is no chance of spills when mixing and little to
no drift when applying the product, so only the target areas will be affected. This will
give applicators the tools to be great stewards of the environment and protect our
natural resources.

In my short time in the industry, I have seen the use of Transformer 5G® as a spot
treatment in the rights- of- way for Japanese Knotweed and was blown away by the
results that were observed. Before using Transformer 5G® the areas affected would be
chopped down by hand with a machete and would take hours. After one application of
Transformer 5G® the area would no longer be an issue for the entire season and
saved countless hours spent in the field chopping down unwanted vegetation. The
residual control that is offered from SSI Maxim of Tennessee LLC products seem to be
the most cost-effective method vegetation control because it will eliminate the physical
labor needed to re-apply the product and will save on return trips to the same area.

Day of Application

12 Months Post

24 Months Post

Fischer Matthews, Eastern Sales Representative, SSI Maxim of TN LLC.  Fischer is a recent graduate of The University of Michigan.  Joined the SSI Maxim sales team in March 2025, and lives with his wife in Nashville, TN.