Developments in Resistance Research

Recently, a group of agronomists traveled to the University of Arkansas (U of A) to study plots dedicated to controlling palmer pigweed.  As more growers continue to see control problems due to glyphosate resistance, it has become important for agricultural researchers to develop new strategies to combat these weeds.  This is especially important for the Mid-South, as glyphosate is the main herbicide used to control weeds. 

The goal of the research at the U of A plots is to find ways to manage glyphosate-resistant Palmer pigweed. Dr. Paul Neve of Warwick University at Wellesbourne, U.K., was among the researchers visiting the plot.  Neve has done extensive research on glyphosate resistance in Australia, and explains in this Jonesboro Sun article that resistance research includes the development of highly useful computer models that allow scientists to extend scenarios into the future.  This new development has the potential to save years on the research process, which is especially important now.

Once a weed develops resistance, it can still be controlled; it’s just a matter of finding new methods.  So far, research at the plots shows two main factors that help control Palmer pigweed are spraying early and maintaining timely irrigation.  Under favorable conditions, pigweed can grow as much as two to three inches a day, so even the difference of a few days can make a huge impact on weed control efforts.  Additionally, in areas where rainfall or irrigation was used on a more timely basis, the infestation was much lighter than in areas that experienced late irrigation.

With the development of the Syngenta Resistance Fighter Solutions Module on ResistanceFighter.com, along with its broad research effort, Syngenta has provided a platform to lead the way among agribusinesses in herbicide resistance management research.