Abnormally warm weather that includes early spring and extended scorching summers is now more alarming than ever. For farmers, warmer weather also means that most weeds will come early. In the past few seasons, many farmers have observed that weeds are popping up about a month before the expected time.
Weeds are known for their resilience and tend to adapt faster to environmental changes. When there is an increase in carbon dioxide and consequently higher temperatures, the weeds will undertake different survival responses, including changing their physiology or growing quicker to ensure continuity.
What’s the Effect on Weed Control?
The reality is that the weather may keep getting warmer in the coming years. So, what do quick-growing weeds mean for you?
Deploying smarter weed control mechanisms.
Experts at Bayer Crop Science recommend an early burndown herbicide application in spring for the best weed control results.
A burndown herbicide helps you to manage quick-growing weeds in their early growth stage. A successful application can also provide the opportunity for tillage, giving you a cleaner field that’s ready for planting.
However, timing is also key. Cold temperatures tend to reduce the efficacy of burndown application.
When nighttime temperatures drop below freezing, the weeds go dormant for a few days, which affects the herbicide uptake and decreases the chances of successful control.
Where possible, it’s best to wait for a few warm and sunny days before application. If the weeds can’t wait, you may need to increase the rate of the herbicide application.
But quick-germinating weeds may need more than a burndown. Consider pairing it with residual herbicide application. This proactive approach provides better weed control down the line, mitigates against herbicide resistance, and ultimately leads to better crop yield.
Lead Editor for Insight Weeds.