Last chance to spray docks in grass

UK - September 08, 2011

Spraying docks in grassland now with a translocated herbicide such as Doxstar, will reduce the weed burden and increase grass yields next spring, according to David Roberts, grassland technical specialist for Dow AgroSciences.
 
However, he says the docks must be healthy and have sufficient leaf area to treat. If this is not the case, and there is a chance of overnight frost, it will be better to leave spraying until next spring.
 
“The best crops to treat now will be silage leys, where the docks have re-grown after their final cut to at least rosette stage and are still actively growing. This allows maximum uptake of herbicide and transport within the plant down into the roots.
 
“It is possible to achieve good levels of control from an autumn spray – especially in areas where early frosts are unlikely for at least two weeks after application. Keep an eye on the long-range weather forecast to assess the likelihood of cooler temperatures. If a cold snap is anticipated do not treat.”