Pre-Plant and Pre-Emergent Herbicides for Corn and Soybeans

In order to preserve maximum yield potential, getting the crop out of the gate early without weed competition is essential. Weeds growing from crop emergence to canopy closure can significantly compete for sunlight, moisture, and nutrients. Which is why a good pre-plant or pre-emergence program is the way to go. Several studies have shown that, in corn, yield loss potential from early weed competition can be as much as 15-20%. Additional losses from running over corn (with a Post program) is another factor worthy of consideration. Especially with the recent adoption, by many growers, to move away from 30” to 15-20” rows. These herbicides also have different, overlapping modes of action which can help control trouble weeds that have developed. Glyphosate and acetolactate synthase (ALS) resistance is occurring in weeds such as lambsquarters, ragweed, and marestail.

There are several pre-plant and pre-emergence residual herbicide programs available for corn and soybeans, but with most things, there are pros and cons to consider. Pre-plant products require some degree of mechanical incorporation prior to planting and a certain amount of timely precipitation is needed to activate pre-emergence chemistry. But, the advantages and benefits of using Pre vs. Post herbicide programs are significant enough to make it a worthy endeavor.

For more information and discussion about a pre-plant or pre-emergent herbicide program, please contact your local CaroVail location.

Click on the newsletter below for more information on seed prep and planting

CaroVail Newsletter 05042018