Diclosulam works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called acetolactate synthase (ALS), which is responsible for the synthesis of branched-chain amino acids in plants. By inhibiting ALS, diclosulam disrupts the production of these essential amino acids, which leads to the cessation of plant growth and ultimately the death of the weed. Diclosulam is a selective herbicide, meaning it targets certain plant species while leaving others unaffected. It is primarily effective against broadleaf weeds, including pigweed, ragweed, lambsquarters, and waterhemp.