Market volatility plagued many farmers this year as inflation and interest rates climbed high and necessary production inputs for both growers and livestock producers impacted pocketbooks. But for many, record yields and good prices made the troubles worth it. A familiar foe could make an unwelcomed return in 2023, however. Dry conditions this year may make weed control especially burdensome this next growing season.
Here are five tips to prepare now for weed concerns next year:
1. Consider a burndown application yet this year, if applicable to your area. Temperatures need to be warm in the daytime and greater than 40 degrees overnight. Iowa State University says horseweed responds especially well to burndown treatments.
2. Use a high-quality surfactant or adjuvant. Drought can make plants less likely to take in herbicide, requiring assistance from an adjuvant/surfactant.
3. Evaluate herbicide carryover form this year before implementing a control plan for next spring.
4. Look at ways to work around Mother Nature. Pre-emergence products need ½” rain for activation. Post-emergence may be a better fit for your operation.
5. Consider weed control options outside of herbicide use, such as cover crops.
