Are Pre-emergence Herbicides Really That Important?
Weather has played a big part in the ups and downs of this cropping season. From excessive rain to delayed herbicide applications and the threat of frost, Mother Nature has kept us on our toes this year and forced growers to continue running combines into December. Thinking now about what weed programs to use in 2010 helps to alleviate potential problems that may arise in the spring. Jeff Gunsolus, University of Minnesota Extension weed scientist, offered advice on how to be better prepared and reduce pressure on glyphosate herbicides.
His recommendations include allowing time for scouting, being aware of a single weed species that persists through herbicide applications, and giving more consideration to pre-emergence herbicides.
Although this may have been a tough year for pre-emergence herbicides, Gunsolus and Syngenta alike encourage their use to lessen the reliance on glyphosate as the sole mode of action in a herbicide program. One of the best strategies a grower can implement to minimize the spread of resistance is to incorporate pre-emergence residual herbicides, such as Prefix® or Flexstar® GT in soybeans and Lexar® in corn, into their herbicide program. Not only do these herbicides offer different modes of action, they allow growers to control weeds early rather than waiting for weeds to gain a foothold and become more problematic. Being proactive in managing resistance can slow the progress of glyphosate weed resistance and protect yield potential while helping preserve the value of glyphosate technology.
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Flexstar GT is not currently registered for sale or use in all states. Please check with your state or local extension service before buying or using this product.