Weed control is crucial for a successful growing season, especially for soybeans, which have shorter herbicide application windows compared to corn. To get a head start, here are some tips for effective soybean weed control:
- Know your fields: Each field is different. What works for a neighbor may not be right for you. No-till fields often have more winter weeds, so an early burndown application with a residual product helps keep fields clean. Double-check your soybean seed trait and ensure the herbicide plan matches to avoid mistakes that could harm your crop.
- Have a flexible plan: Understand your herbicide options and stay alert for changes. Weather conditions, delayed planting, or tall weeds might require switching chemicals. A layered residual herbicide plan can help, especially in fields with persistent weeds like waterhemp. Timing is important for these applications to be effective.
- Watch the weather: Spring weather impacts herbicide effectiveness. Cool temperatures or lack of rainfall can reduce success. A half-inch of rain is needed to activate herbicides, so timing with weather is key.
- Scout regularly: Scouting throughout the season ensures you’re on top of weed issues and can adjust applications as needed.
