Variable spring weather is a perennial challenge, especially when it comes to timing sprayer applications. One of the greatest advantages of taking a program approach to weed control is added flexibility for managing weather conditions and application windows.
A program approach, like the Enlist® Weed Control System is a two-pass system that uses multiple modes of action to effectively control weeds, including resistant and problem weeds.
Farmers can easily realize the first advantage of a program approach in the increased flexibility of product applications. Yield protection, reduced early season weed competition, and multi-modes of action for resistance management are also significant advantages of this system.
Beginning with a pre-emergence herbicide application with some residual activity, the first pass sets Enlist E3™ soybeans up for immediate success. Keeping fields clean during the critical weed-free period – just after emergence through to the third trifoliate – guarantees the best start. Not only do weeds compete for nutrients and moisture, but they can also intercept light. Reducing weed competition in the early stages of plant growth is necessary to help soybeans realize their genetic yield potential.
Timely post-emergent applications will optimize weed control and reduce weed competition. Once again, taking a program approach pays off when it comes to timing the second pass. The value of the pre-emergence with residual weed control is easily realized by the wider application window of the second pass. This is especially handy if unfavourable spring weather has a farmer choosing between planting or spraying. Weeds are already under control thanks to the first application, allowing more flexibility in application timing. The wider application window also helps control late flushes or escaped weeds.
With Enlist E3 soybeans off to a strong start, farmers can keep their fields clean by applying either Enlist Duo™ herbicide (Groups 4 & 9) or Enlist™ 1 herbicide (Group 4) tank-mixed with Glyphosate (Group 9) or Liberty® 200 SN (Group 10).
Both Enlist herbicides come with Colex-D™ technology for near-zero volatility and low drift – additional advantages for managing spring weather conditions and application timing.
Working with the weather is always a challenge when comes to timing applications. If conditions happen to be dry during the pre-emerge stage, take advantage of the opportunity. It’s better to achieve an early season application than miss the application window altogether. Don’t lose the opportunity for a soil active product to work, especially if it means buying time later in the season.
A pre-emerge application provides long-lasting weed control that can remove early-season weed pressure. Many products offer 6-8 weeks of residual control. Be sure to read the product label and consult a trusted advisor if you have questions about products or application timing.
If rain isn’t in the forecast, be sure to adjust the program approach as necessary. For example, farmers can pivot to an early post-emergence pass (at the unifoliate to first trifoliate stage) adding in a residual. This early pass ensures you remove weeds early and set yourself up for the second pass.
Despite the weather, the goal of all weed control programs is to remove weed interference in the early plant growth stages to help soybeans get their best start. The stronger the plant establishment, the greater the opportunity the crop has to reach its yield potential.
Questions about how a program approach can help weed control in your fields, or how to manage variable weather and spray applications? Ask a trusted agronomic advisor, retailer or local Corteva Agriscience™ Territory Manager.
