By Blake Jackson
Planting double-crop soybeans after harvesting barley or wheat comes with its own set of weed control challenges. Here's a breakdown of key strategies to ensure a weed-free growing season:
Early Intervention is Key:
- Pre-Planting Burndown: A weed-free seedbed is crucial. Glyphosate is an option for susceptible weeds, but glyphosate-resistant marestail requires a different approach.
- Enlist Varieties: Planting Enlist E3 soybeans allows for immediate post-planting application of Enlist One or Duo for weed control.
Marestail Control Strategies:
- Tank-mix Options: For glyphosate-susceptible marestail, glyphosate can be tank-mixed with Sharpen and 2,4-D LVE for burndown and control of marestail stumps.
- Post-emergence Options: Liberty or glufosinate-based products offer effective control of marestail in LibertyLink or Enlist E3 varieties.
Palmer Amaranth and Waterhemp Control:
- Residual Herbicides: Consider using residual herbicides like Dual Magnum, Warrant, or Authority before weed seed germination, especially if these weeds are prevalent. Rainfall is crucial for activation.
Additional Tips:
- Tank-mixing: Mixing herbicides can broaden the spectrum of weed control and improve residual activity.
- Non-GMO Options: For non-GMO soybeans, several post-emergence herbicides are available, but be aware of potential soybean injury and ineffectiveness against marestail.
Important Considerations:
- Planting Restrictions: Some herbicides require waiting periods between application and planting.
- Dicamba Risk: Avoid using dicamba due to high drift potential and crop sensitivity. The application deadline has also passed.
By following these guidelines and consulting with local experts, double-crop soybean growers can achieve effective weed control and maximize their yield potential.
Photo Credit: istock-sandramatic
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Soybeans