Controlling grassy leaf weeds in wheat after the first irrigation is critical for achieving a healthy and high-yielding crop. Grassy leaf weeds such as wild oats, green foxtail, and barnyard grass can reduce wheat yields by up to 30%, and if left unchecked they can quickly become a problem in the field.
One effective strategy for controlling grassy leaf weeds in wheat is to use a combination of pre and post-emergent herbicides. Pre-emergent herbicides are applied before the crop emerges and work by preventing weed seeds from germinating. Post-emergent herbicides, on the other hand, are applied after the crop has emerged and work by killing existing weeds.
It is essential to apply pre-emergent herbicides before the first irrigation to ensure that the herbicide is evenly distributed and that the soil is properly moistened. This will help the herbicide to penetrate the weed seeds and prevent them from germinating.
Post-emergent herbicides are often applied two to three weeks after the first irrigation, once the grassy leaf weeds have emerged and are actively growing. It is important to ensure that the weeds are in the two to four leaf stage before applying the herbicide, as this is the most effective stage for control.
When selecting a post-emergent herbicide, it is important to consider its effectiveness against the specific grassy leaf weed species present in the field. For example, sulfonylurea herbicides such as Maverick, Amber, and Ally are effective against wild oats but do not control green foxtail.
Additionally, it is important to follow the herbicide label instructions carefully and to apply the herbicide at the correct rate. Applying too little herbicide will not provide effective control, while applying too much can damage the wheat crop.
In conclusion, controlling grassy leaf weeds in wheat after the first irrigation is essential for achieving a healthy and productive crop. Using a combination of pre and post-emergent herbicides and applying them at the correct timing and rate will help to achieve effective control and improve overall crop yields.