A preparation hint.
Just like any other crop, soybeans need to be kept free from weeds in order to achieve its yield potential. The highest yielding variety I know of has the potential to yield 5tons/ha, but this can only be achieved or closely approached if we implement good agronomic practices. Here, we will discuss some of the available weed herbicides that will ensure you have a weed-free field. Considering the impact of climate change, it’s important to have backup irrigation to avoid being caught off guard during drought periods.
I often receive questions about how weeds are controlled in certain fields. Well, here is how it’s done: timing is important for successful weed control. Below is an example of a weed-free soybean field in Lusaka,Zambia maintained according to the recommendations of agronomist H. Kanyimbo.
Pre-Planting – This stage involves applying herbicides before planting, during land preparation. A farmer sprays a non-selective herbicide to eliminate weeds and ensure smooth planting. Systemic herbicides such as Roar Extra and Phosate Turbo, supplied by Agricrop, are ideal for this stage.
Pre-Emergence – Herbicides are applied just after planting but before the crop germinates. This stage requires herbicide application within a 3-day period to prevent weed seed germination, allowing the crop to germinate without competition. Herbicides like Flumimax plus Claw are used, with the addition of paraquat if weeds are already present at planting.
Post-Emergence – After the crop has germinated, selective herbicides are applied to eliminate weeds without harming the soybean crop. Depending on weed pressure, a 21-day period is recommended for applying post-selective herbicides. If no weeds germinate within 21 days, wait an additional 10 days. It’s crucial to target the second post-spray when weeds are at the 2 to 3 leaf stage for effective control. Foquiz, supplied by Agricrop, is used at this stage to control broadleaf and grass weeds.
It’s important to spray these herbicides when the soil is moist to ensure better penetration for effective weed control. Once the crop begins to canopy, any weeds that grow afterward are weakened by the canopy and pose no economic threat.
Peoplesmind
