Tank Mixes as a Resistance Management Tool

Tank mixes are often recommended as a resistance management tool.  However, not every tank mix fulfills this important function. For instance, if you’re adding something to the tank to control ALS-resistant waterhemp in Illinois, simply adding a different herbicide won’t do the trick unless it isn’t also an ALS-inhibiting herbicide. A different herbicide doesn’t necessarily mean a different mode of action (MOA).

Understanding the difference in herbicide modes of action is important for adequate control of difficult weeds and when implementing an effective resistance management plan. It’s also important to prolong the lifespan or effectiveness of that chemistry. As has been demonstrated with glyphosate resistance in the U.S., continual use of the same herbicide contributes to the development of resistance. Syngenta has taken to labeling herbicides with the number of the class of MOA on the label. (A list of herbicide names and modes of action is available on RF.com.)  This makes it easier to identify the different MOAs for your herbicides choices.

How closely do you look at the herbicide mode of action when implementing a new herbicide into your program? What tank mixes work particularly well for you when trying to manage glyphosate resistant weeds in corn or soybeans? What role do tank mix partners play in your resistance management program?