The 2023 growing season was challenging, especially when it comes to corn and soybean weed control. You know too well that weeds are a top threat to corn and soybean yield potential — and the future of crop production. Take another moment now to assess the tools that are available for developing an effective weed control program, starting with the strategic use of pre-emergent herbicides.
What You Need to Know
The Midwest harbors many weed species that constantly threaten crop yields. Recognizing prevalent weeds in your region is the first step in crafting a targeted preemergence herbicide strategy. Early-season weed competition can significantly reduce yields and profits.
Waterhemp, giant ragweed, common ragweed, foxtail species, lambsquarters, and marestail are common culprits that can cause substantial losses if not effectively managed. In 2024, Asian copperleaf, Palmer amaranth, burcucumber, and kochia may bring additional challenges.
Pre-emergent herbicides provide critical early-season weed control when crops are most sensitive to competition, widening the window for postemergence herbicide sprays. Total post programs are riskier due to potential weather conditions preventing timely application.
Action Steps:
- Identify the weed challenges you had in 2023 – What fields had the most significant weed issues last year? What worked? What didn’t, and what do you need to adjust? Develop an early-season weed program.
- Start with clean fields – AgVenture encourages a year-round approach to propelling each of your fields to the utmost potential, and using multiple herbicide modes of action and diverse application timing is recommended to control numerous weed flushes throughout the season is a significant section of that approach. These actions may include burndown, pre-plant, pre- and postemergence, and postharvest applications. In addition, make sure your tillage equipment is set deep enough to uproot the weeds.
- Clean Equipment – Make sure your equipment is weed seeds-free before spring planting.
- Application Timing – Apply preemergence herbicides before weed emergence to achieve optimal control. Timing is crucial, and precision is critical. Already our customers are using precautionary measures to line up personnel and equipment for timely applications.
- Select AgVenture brand corn and soybean varieties with Enlist® traits for your fields – Consult your AgVenture Yield Specialist to make informed decisions about the best individual products for your farm and the accompanying weed considerations for the upcoming crop year.
- Use Enlist® herbicides – Enlist herbicides are versatile, effective and can be used in burndown, preemergence, and postemergence on crops with Enlist traits.
As the planting season progresses, a well-thought-out preemergence herbicide strategy becomes pivotal for optimal weed control and maximizing your crop yields. Stay informed about local weed trends, consult with your AgVenture Yield Specialist in concert with other ag experts in your circle of influence to implement tailored recommendations for your region to produce more bushels in the fall.
Find your AgVenture Yield Specialist at AgVenture.com/find and learn more about the Enlist® Weed Control System at Enlist.com.
References
2024 Herbicide Guide: Iowa Corn and Soybean Production
https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/2024-Herbicide-Guide-Iowa-Corn-and-Soybean-Production
Soybean Research & Information Network
https://soybeanresearchinfo.com/agronomics/weed-management/
Take Action, United Soybean Board
iwilltakeaction.com
Legal
Enlist Duo® and Enlist One® herbicides are not registered for sale or use in all states or counties. Contact your state pesticide regulatory agency to determine if a product is registered for sale or use in your area. Enlist Duo and Enlist One are the only 2,4-D products authorized for use with Enlist crops. Consult Enlist herbicide labels for weed species controlled. Always read and follow label directions.