Diflubenzuron is active in soil. Diflubenzuron is rapidly adsorbed by soil. The half-life of diflubenzuron in soil is less than 2 weeks at 20 C in the presence of air. The half-life is extended up to 21 weeks under conditions without air in the soil. Degradation of diflubenzuron is most rapid in soils higher in organic matter.
Degradation is also most rapid when the diflubenzuron particles are smaller.
It is broken down by microorganisms in soil, including fungi. Ultraviolet light exposure does not significantly degrade diflubenzuron. Plants take up residues of diflubenzuron and its metabolites from soil. The residues are transported from the roots to the above-ground portions of the plants. The EPA is requiring more information on the breakdown and dissipation of diflubenzuron in soil.