2,6-Dichlorobenzonitrile

2,6-Dichlorobenzonitrile (DCBN or dichlobenil) is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H3Cl2CN. It is a white solid that is soluble in organic solvents. It is widely used as an herbicide. It has herbicidal properties killing young seedlings of both monocot and dicot species. DCBN interferes with cellulose synthesis. DCBN adapted cell walls use minimal amounts of cellulose, instead relying on Ca2+-bridge pectates. In 1971 in the U.S. State of California, their department of agriculture reported, 'Dichlobenil kills the roots of many species, but not all; further, the killing does not extend much beyond the portion actually soaked.'