PRE AND POST FOR THE BEST WEED CONTROL ON CORN

In a world of weed resistance, weed control is generally not a one-and-done application. Effective weed management requires both pre- and post-emerge applications of herbicides with multiple modes of action.

Adam Jahnz, Federated agronomy sales rep at the Rush City location, first noted that timely applications are the first consideration. Especially with pre-emerge products. Too early or too late can adversely affect yields.

On corn, Jahnz said, “you can get [sometimes] away with one application, but you will want to make sure you have multiple modes of action to combat some problem weeds.” He offered these thoughts on weed control on corn:

• Weeds in the field = Yields lost.
• Corn weed control should begin early in the season. “Corn doesn’t like ‘friends’ and it doesn’t even like itself,” said Jahnz. And, “getting corn done early gives you the window to get soybeans sprayed.”
• Corn should be sprayed when no more than 2-3 leaves are developed on the plant – to protect as much yield as possible.
• Post-emerge applications should be within 30 days of planting.
• Established weeds promote the establishment of weed resistance; clean fields don’t let weeds get the upper hand.
• Corn applications should be robust for grass and broadleaf control.

The key, according to Jahnz, is to have a plan and stick to it. “Spring will be here before we know it, and it’s time to plan [your] herbicide program for corn.”

Federated’s motto for weed control is pretty simple: Start clean. Stay clean.

Federated offers custom application services to meet your weed control needs. Contact your Federated Agronomist with weed questions and to discuss custom services.