Pre-emergence Herbicides Used in Wheat: A Comprehensive Guide
Pre-emergence herbicides are used in wheat farming to control weeds that emerge before or at the same time as the wheat crop. These herbicides are applied before crop emergence and provide effective weed control during the early stage of crop development. The use of pre-emergence herbicides is an important practice in wheat farming as it helps in reducing competition for resources between the crop and weeds. In this article, we will explore the information regarding pre-emergence herbicides used in wheat.
Types of Pre-Emergence Herbicides
Pre-emergence herbicides used in wheat can be classified into two main categories:
1. Residual herbicides: These herbicides provide long-lasting weed control by forming a barrier in the soil that prevents weed germination and emergence. Residual herbicides are generally applied before crop emergence and should be incorporated into the soil for effective weed control.
2. Contact herbicides: These herbicides provide quick and effective control of emerged weeds. Contact herbicides are applied after crop emergence and have little to no residual activity in the soil.
Common Pre-Emergence Herbicides Used in Wheat
1. S-metolachlor: This is a residual herbicide that is commonly used in wheat farming. It provides excellent control of annual grass weeds, such as foxtail and barnyardgrass, and some broadleaf weeds.
2. Dimethenamid-P: This is another residual herbicide that is commonly used in wheat farming. It provides good control of annual grasses, such as foxtail and barnyardgrass, and some broadleaf weeds.
3. Pyroxasulfone: This is a relatively new residual herbicide that has been shown to effectively control a wide range of weeds, including annual grasses and broadleaf weeds.
4. Flufenacet: This is a residual herbicide that provides effective control of annual grass weeds, such as foxtail and ryegrass, and some broadleaf weeds.
Application Timing
The timing of pre-emergence herbicide application in wheat is critical to its effectiveness. The ideal time for pre-emergence herbicide application is just before or during wheat planting. This helps in preventing weed infestation and reducing competition for resources between the weed and crop. It is important to note that pre-emergence herbicides should be applied carefully, following all label directions, to prevent crop injury and ensure optimum weed control.
Conclusion
Pre-emergence herbicides are an essential tool in wheat farming for managing weed infestations. Residual herbicides provide long-lasting weed control, while contact herbicides provide quick and effective control of emerged weeds. The timing of herbicide application is critical to its effectiveness, and it is important to follow all label directions to prevent crop injury and ensure optimal weed control. By using pre-emergence herbicides, farmers can control weeds and ensure the optimum yield and quality of wheat crops.