Full Rates, Fully Necessary
Applying less than the full recommended rate can lead to poor weed control, as well as herbicide resistance. Repeated exposure to low or cut-rate herbicides allows biotypes with moderate levels of natural resistance a more likely opportunity to survive, which can increase the population of resistant weeds. University researchers from around the world have conducted studies on this idea, demonstrating the negative effects. Dr. Stephen Powles, University of Western Australia,
emphasizes this.
In addition, reducing the rate of a pre-emergence residual herbicide means the active ingredient will run out that much sooner. With the increase in glyphosate-resistant weeds, including tough weeds like waterhemp, giant ragweed and Palmer pigweed, a longer residual to control additional flushes becomes a necessity. Experts tell us that the toughest weeds have the longest emergence patterns.
For more information on Dr. Powles research, check out Using Full, Recommended Rates Helps Delay the Onset of Resistance.