Source: Syngenta
When making herbicide applications, some growers choose to only apply partial rates, rather than applying the full rate indicated on the label. But by using reduced rates, you can unintentionally boost the development of herbicide resistance. A helpful comparison is an antibiotic treatment for an infection. We are advised by our doctors to take the full dosage of an antibiotic even if our infection appears to be gone because if we don’t fully kill the infection, it can come back with resistance to the antibiotic. The same goes for weeds: Using full herbicide rates will not only be more effective in removing problem weeds, but it will also help prevent weeds from developing new forms of resistance to that herbicide.
So while applying partial rates may seem like a good way to cut costs, the truth is that it can significantly damage your ROI in the long run. In addition to eventual resistance, consequences of cutting your herbicide rate can include:
- Weed outbreaks
- Crops competing for nutrients
- Decreased yield
To avoid these problems and get the most out of your weed management program, it’s important to make pre- and post-emergence herbicides applications at full rates and at the recommended growth stage indicated on the product labels.
For more information, talk to your local Syngenta representative or check out Syngenta's Resistance Fighter program for education, local recommendations and a comprehensive herbicide portfolio to help you effectively manage resistant weeds in your area.