Mark VanGessel, Extension Weed Specialist; mjv@udel.edu
Looking for the MidAtlantic Weed Management Guide for 2021, visit the PennState Extension website to purchase your copy!
Looking to use one of the specially formulated versions of dicamba for Xtend soybeans? Be sure you have completed the dicamba training offered online by the various manufacturers
What about paraquat? If you have plans to use paraquat this year, be sure you take an approved training. This training needs to be completed every two years.
I am hearing more and more folks talk about killing their cover crops late this year to maximize benefits. Our research has shown big benefits for weed control if delaying and additional 1 to 2 weeks in the spring. However, one word of caution, keep an eye on the forecast, we have had plenty of moisture the past few years and moisture deficiencies were not an issue. Cover crops can use a lot of moisture and if a stretch of dry weather coincides with your intended planting date, you may want to adjust your plans.
As you finalize your weed management plans for this year keep a few things in mind:
- Plant clean (control existing weeds at planting)
- Use the right herbicide; match your herbicide with the weeds present in your field
- Use the right rate; reduced (or cut) rates can lead to development of herbicide-resistant weeds
- Apply at the right time; spraying too early or too late are the most common causes of weed control failures. Spray your residual herbicides close to planting and spray postemergence herbicides to small susceptible weeds.