Glyphosate-Resistant Weed Explosion on the Horizon?
The introduction of glyphosate tolerance in soybeans took the ag industry by storm, and this technology was adopted in the field more rapidly than any other to date. But now, more than a decade after the introduction of glyphosate-tolerant crops, glyphosate-resistant weeds may be poised to make a similar impact.
2008 has the potential to be an explosive year for glyphosate resistance. Some experts expect the number of crop acres with glyphosate-resistant weeds to double to 10 million this year. The combination of multiple years of glyphosate use, increases in corn and soybean acres, and weather conditions could create a "perfect storm" for resistant weed emergence. Current problems have become a bigger issue for those already dealing with the problem - in size, scope and tolerance. Other weeds are being closely monitored, including several grass weeds. As the fall and winter is upon us, news around this topic will be interesting to monitor.
Nine weed species are confirmed resistant to glyphosate in the U.S., including waterhemp, Palmer amaranth, giant and common ragweed, marestail (horseweed) and Johnsongrass. And, weed scientists are keeping a close eye on several other tough weeds, like lambsquarters. However, growers can manage these weeds with proactive solutions that include pre-emergence and residual herbicides. Corn and soybean growers can visit the Resistance Fighter Solutions Module to easily find a management plant for their fields.