Control problem weeds and see your grassland improve

UK - March 29, 2007

As the weather starts to warm up so plant growth will accelerate and it is time to start thinking about controlling the problem perennial weeds that will affect your grassland productivity this season.

That's the message to livestock farmers who should start looking out for early signs of the main problem weeds such as docks, thistles and nettles and then plan a control strategy for this season.

"Walk your fields now, assess the levels of weeds beginning to grow and where the worst patches are showing," says Vaughn Stansfield, grassland agronomist with Dow AgroSciences.

"Pick out the key weed that is your biggest problem and make that one your priority to control at the correct time. But don't spray too early. You can be a bit flexible and you may be able to leave spraying for a few days to include another weed.

"Our experience over many years of grassland weed control nationwide shows that a combination of product choice, timing and water volume are the keys to success."

If you only have one major weed to control, then select a product to control that weed. If you are trying to control two or more different weeds then choose a broad-spectrum herbicide like Forefront to give you better coverage of docks, thistles, nettles, as well as buttercups and dandelions.

Timing of application is crucial for good results and spraying should only take place when weeds are actively growing and at the rosette stage. For docks and thistles this means up to 25cm high or wide (the size of a dinner plate) and for nettles it is 30cm. For buttercups and dandelions, spray before flowering.

Only one application of Forefront is recommended a year and it is rainfast one hour after spraying. The application rate is 2 litres/ha in 200-300 litres of water. The higher level of water volume may be necessary when there is a high weed population and dense grass.

"Get rid of the weeds and you will see the difference. Allow your grass to grow unhindered by weeds and produce quality, palatable silage or better grazing." says Mr Stansfield.