Now’s the time to scout your winter wheat fields for fall-germinated winter annual weeds. “Getting out into the field today and surveying the crop is essential to help your winter wheat achieve its highest yield,” says Ken Gross, a Ducks Unlimited Canada agrologist. “Weeds such as narrow-leaved hawks beard, stinkweed, flixweed and shepherd’s purse can compete with the crop for resources and reduce yield.”
While weed control considerations for winter wheat are similar to other cereal crops, producers should be mindful of herbicide selection and timing.
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Identify the problem weeds, and then select an appropriate product after consulting with your crop protection guide.
In-crop applications in spring generally coincide with pre-seeding glyphosate applications and seeding operations.
Aim to spray when the winter annual weeds are still small, but actively growing, and spray within the proper winter wheat growth stage for the herbicide used.
Crop injury can result if the herbicide application is followed by a frost. Colder temperatures may interfere with the plant’s ability to metabolize the herbicide’s active ingredients. Applications following a frost should be postponed for two to three days depending on the severity, or until the weeds are actively growing.
Ensure that any burn-off chemicals have been well rinsed from the sprayer tank, to prevent crop damage.
For more information, visit wintercereals.ca.
