As the wheat crop begins to grow, so too do the weeds that can threaten its success. Grassy leaf weeds such as barnyardgrass, wild oats, and foxtails can quickly invade wheat fields, competing for nutrients, water, and light. Left unchecked, these weeds can significantly reduce yield potential and quality. Therefore, it is crucial to control them early and efficiently, especially after the first irrigation has been performed.
The best method for controlling grassy leaf weeds in wheat after the first irrigation is through herbicide application. The herbicides will need to be selective, meaning they will kill weeds without harming the crop, and applied at the appropriate time in the weed’s growth cycle. It is also crucial to follow label instructions and apply herbicides before the weeds have become too large.
One popular herbicide for controlling grassy leaf weeds in wheat is Axial® XL. Axial® XL contains pinoxaden, which is a selective herbicide that targets grassy weeds in wheat fields. This herbicide can control wild oats, barnyardgrass, and foxtails, amongst others. Axial® XL should be applied when the wheat is in the late tillering to early jointing stage, ideally between three to six weeks after crop emergence. It can be mixed with other herbicides to provide a broad spectrum of weed control to give the best control of a range of grassy leaf weeds.
Another herbicide is Pylon®. Pylon® contains aminopyralid and is designed to control broadleaf weeds and grassy weeds in wheat fields. This herbicide works by inhibiting weed growth enzymes, leading to the weed’s death. Pylon® should be applied after the flag leaf is fully emerged, but before the boot stage. This will provide the best control of grassy weeds and broadleaf weeds.
In summary, controlling grassy leaf weeds in wheat fields is critical to maximize yield potential and profitability. Herbicides such as Axial® XL and Pylon® can provide selective control of weeds without harming the crop if applied at the appropriate time in the weed’s growth cycle. It is crucial to follow label instructions and use these herbicides as part of an integrated weed management plan to maximize weed control and yields.