Winter Brush Control: Why Tebuthiuron Is the Right Tool at this Time for South Texas Ranchers

When it comes to effective brush control, timing is everything. Many herbicides require warm temperatures, active growth, and fully developed foliage to work properly. But some of the most problematic brush species in South-Central Texas don’t follow those rules and neither does Tebuthiuron, one of the most reliable soil-active tools for long-term brush suppression.

For landowners dealing with ceniza, whitebrush, blackbrush, guajillo, or running live oak, winter isn’t the off-season. It’s the ideal window.

Why Winter Works for Tebuthiuron

Unlike foliar sprays that depend on leaf uptake, Tebuthiuron works through the root zone. Pellets dissolve with soil moisture and move into the upper soil profile where roots absorb the herbicide. Because it doesn’t require active top-growth, winter conditions like cooler temperatures, reduced grass competition, and more favorable soil moisture profiles help ensure consistent movement into the root system.

AgriLife and NRCS guidance has long noted that fall through early spring (roughly October–April) is a preferred period for Tebuthiuron application on many South Texas brush species. During this window, pellets can remain in place, dissolve gradually, and be absorbed steadily.

Brush Species That Respond Well to Tebuthiuron

Tebuthiuron is not a cure-all but for the right species, it is exceptionally effective. In South-Central Texas, ranchers see some of the best results on:

• Ceniza

• Whitebrush

• Blackbrush

• Guajillo

• Running live oak

These species have dense root systems that take up soil-active herbicides efficiently, and studies show substantial reductions in canopy cover and density in the first 12–24 months after treatment when rates are correctly matched to density and soil type.

Application Rates: Matching Rates to Brush Density

While exact rate decisions should always be made on a per-property basis, AgriLife and NRCS publications generally describe moderate-to-heavy brush infestations requiring rates in the ½–1 lb active ingredient per acre range, which aligns with roughly 6–12 lbs of product per acre, depending on formulation.

Among the species commonly treated in our region:

• Ceniza & Whitebrush often respond well at moderate rates

• Guajillo & Blackbrush typically require the higher end of the recommended range, especially where stands are mature or dense

• Running live oak can also be effectively suppressed, though results depend on soil texture and competitive vegetation

We work with each landowner to determine rate, coverage, and mapping needs before the aircraft ever leaves the ground.

Cost Matters and We Deliver Real Value

There’s no avoiding it: Tebuthiuron is one of the more expensive brush herbicides on the market. And for many ranchers, that price tag has been a major barrier.

But here’s the good news — working with us, Tebuthiuron applications may be far more affordable than you expect.

Because of how we source product and structure our aerial application services, in many cases:

• Our product pricing can be significantly lower than the typical market price

• And when landowners choose a 12 lb/acre rate, the savings on product cost are often substantial enough that the effective cost of aerial application feels nearly free

We don’t cut corners. We simply buy smart, operate efficiently, and pass that value on to our ranching customers while still delivering professional, high-quality aerial work.

This value proposition allows many landowners, especially those who’ve put off brush control due to cost, to finally take action and reclaim acreage they’ve been losing year after year.

What Landowners Should Expect After Application

• Tebuthiuron is slow but thorough. Visible effects often appear months after application as the herbicide moves into the root zone.

• Avoid mechanical disturbance too soon. Bulldozing or shredding too early can interfere with root-system kill.

• Expect long-term control. Once susceptible species die back, treated pastures often experience improved grass production and easier long-term maintenance.

Ready to Treat This Winter? We’re Already Switching Over.

We’ve begun receiving requests for Tebuthiuron, and we are now transitioning into our winter application schedule. If brush species like ceniza, whitebrush, blackbrush, guajillo, or running live oak are taking over your place, this is the time to act.

A single winter application can set up years of improved forage, better wildlife habitat, and easier pasture access.

And with our pricing structure, it may be the most cost-effective land-management decision you make all year.

📞 Give us a call — and let’s get your ranch scheduled for a winter application window while conditions are ideal.