Agronomist Craig Reid says there are effective strategies growers can use to manage herbicide-resistant weeds, such as using longer rotations, cover crops, and tillage.

Managing herbicide-resistant weeds in corn

Planning and variety in rotations is a large factor, but cover crops and herbicide programs help too

Herbicide resistant weeds in all crops are a continuous concern, and for corn, these can be reduced with effective management practices. “The whole strategy [of weed control] is going to revolve around prevention, through rotation, tillage – or lack thereof – and soil applied, or pre-plant herbicides, followed with scouting for escapes,” says Craig Reid, […] Read more

Stacking three types of mechanical weed control is nearly as efficient as using herbicides, according to organic crop production researchers.

‘Stacking’ of row-crop tillage shows promise

Three modes of action monitored in organic crop study

Using the same terminology employed by agrochemical manufacturers promoting the “stacking” of herbicide-resistant traits in seed, an organic-sector specialist from the University of Maine sees promise in multiple modes of mechanical weed control. Eric Gallandt spoke on integrated weed management at the Guelph Organic Conference. He is one of the co-originators, along with Iowa State […] Read more

The four-channel electromagnetic flowmeter system helps to push down product, reduce drift and allow for better application.

Can drones replace self-propelled spraying equipment?

Drones can help improve product application and provide better results

Drones are quickly becoming a preferred tool for growers across the globe. Some drones offer high-concentration, small-volume spraying technology with the same efficacy of coverage as typical agricultural equipment, allowing producers to use less product. As well, the flight ability and down-facing fan action allow growers to ensure timely applications independent of soil conditions, with […] Read more

An analysis of 27 years of herbicide evaluation trials from 1992- 2018 found that when weed control was less than 94 per cent over the entire weed community and growing season, it exacerbated the effect of heat or drought on corn yields.

Weeds may compound effects of climate change impact

Study says corn yields are expected to be reduced as weeds compete for fewer water resources in the American Midwest

Glacier FarmMedia – A U.S. study has found that weeds will likely deepen the negative impact of climate change on corn yields, says a scientist. Such results likely extend to other crops, said Marty Williams, an ecologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  “I think what this tells farmers is that going forward, more than […] Read more

There’s a careful and exhaustive process followed before biocontrol insects are brought to Canada, says researcher Rose De Clerck-Floate, seen here releasing stem-galling weevils.

There’s foreign workers in the bug world, too — and they attack weeds

Bringing in weed-attacking pests is a laborious process but it’s often the only option for pastures

Glacier FarmMedia – There are many ways to control weeds. Rose De Clerck-Floate’s favourite is to reunite them with their long-time enemies from the old country. “All of the weeds here can come from other parts of the world, mostly Europe and some from Asia, and establish here without the organisms that keep them in […] Read more


The Weed Zapper has a front applicator bar that disperses electricity to the plants, and is powered by a generator on the back.

Shocking weeds into submission

The Weed Zapper uses electricity to mortally injure weeds

Controlling weeds can be a tough challenge for organic growers with few chemical options, and also for conventional growers battling herbicide-resistant weeds.  For this reason, mechanical weed control has been making a comeback and innovators are now offering more options.  One such option is the Weed Zapper, which uses electricity to kill weeds and does […] Read more

Start simple with cover crops and choose species based on goals.

Covering up weed seeds

Input savings, soil health are among the benefits of cover crops

Cover crops are not free, but they don’t have to be a cost. In fact, they can save farmers money. Researchers and farmers talked about the benefits during a recent session hosted by the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association. While there is always variability, weed suppression and population reduction are the chief – though […] Read more

VIDEO: Water hemp weed management

VIDEO: Water hemp weed management

Field Talk with Chris Snip

In this edition of Field Talk, Farmtario contributor Matt McIntosh talks with Chris Snip, crop sales specialist with Agris Co-operative, about waterhemp in Essex County, wider herbicide management concerns – and the importance of dialogue with your farm neighbours.


The seed head of chess grass extending beyond a winter wheat canopy.

Grassy weeds in winter wheat at harvest

OMAFRA Field Crop Report for July 28

Three different types of grassy weeds have been found above the winter wheat canopy at harvest this year. To prevent them from becoming a problem, they need to be identified so that the appropriate management actions can be taken. Here is a breakdown of each grass species and control options. Chess grass (Bromus secalinus) Management: Chess grass […] Read more

Lamb's quarters weed showing green and grey triangular leaves with shallow, irregular teeth

Weed of the week: Lamb’s quarters

It’s important to get ahead of this prolific, early-growing species

Lamb’s quarters can be a real contender in the field despite susceptibility to a variety of active ingredients. A species of the goosefoot family, lamb’s quarters (Chenopodium album L) require early and active management. Why it matters: Lamb’s quarters are extremely common, emerge early and can significantly reduce yields. Lamb’s quarters are a summer annual […] Read more