Scouting Ahead

The presence of herbicide-resistant weeds is not a new headache for many farmers in the South. Weeds like Palmer amaranth threaten the production of a profitable crop.  Currently, herbicide-resistant weeds cost farmers across the U.S. $2 billion a year. 

By starting with a diversified plan for control, farmers can be proactive when tackling weeds in their fields and protecting their bottom line. The key to successful weed management is the correct identification and treatment of weeds when they are small. To achieve this, farmers should scout their fields for herbicide-resistant weeds regularly.

“For many famers, weed control is the most stressful part of producing a profitable crop,” says Andy Tonos, Delta Ag Consulting. “Once you get pigweed in a field it becomes the main concern to control it.”

While trying to control Palmer amaranth, other weeds to watch out for include marestail and common ragweed. Applying post-emergence herbicides before weeds exceed 3 to 4 inches tall is critical in controlling weeds in the field. Developing a diverse weed management plan with multiple modes of action and incorporating tillage and cover crops, is important to keep weeds from developing herbicide resistance. 

Visit weeds.mssoy.org to find out more about the weeds that could be affecting your fields and how to combat them.