Flexible approach required for mid-to-late season cleavers control

UK - May 17, 2010



Cooler-than-average temperatures this spring have resulted in mixed success with earlier-applied weed control programmes and could increase the threat from cleavers, growers are being warned.

"With the current fluctuations in the weather across the country and soil temperatures remaining relatively low, flexibility will be key considerations in making the right product choice to keep any remaining threat of cleavers at bay this season. Because of the cold and dry spring, there are more cleavers in evidence and earlier herbicide treatments were not as effective as in a normal season," explains Agrovista's Technical Manager, Mark Hemmant.

"Atlantis (mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron) treatments probably haven't worked as well as they could do in the conditions and the situation was complicated because, due to an increase in tank mixing restrictions, fewer other targeted products went on with Atlantis. All in all, we're facing quite a bit of clearing up to do in terms of cleavers."

While an early spring application remains the best opportunity for the control of cleavers, Mr Hemmant suggests that a mid-to-late season application of Starane Vantage (florasulam + fluroxypyr) will provide growers with a robust control option.

"Both florasulam and fluroxypyr have strong activity against cleavers but florasulam will provide more flexibility over a wider range of temperatures, compared with an application of straight fluroxypyr, as in Starane 2. Although the forecast is for air temperatures to rise, soil temperatures remain low following the cold spring, and florasulam will provide the required level of control for slow-, or fast-growing cleavers."

Mr Hemmant advises growers that crop growth stages are also very variable this spring, with some farmers having only recently completed their T0 sprays, some currently applying T1s and others planning for their T2 sprays to begin in the next two weeks.

"Cleavers are a priority at the moment, whatever stage the crop is at," warns Mr Hemmant. "With most growers looking towards a T2 spray shortly, Starane Vantage should be included in the tank mix to provide the best option for successful control."