An integrated chemical and cultural approach to weed control is crucial to protect existing herbicide chemistry and the environment, Bayer CropScience has reminded growers.

“Growers cannot rely exclusively on herbicides in the longer term,” said the firm’s Gordon Anderson-Taylor. “They are just one element of an integrated weed management strategy, and it’s crucial that they are used correctly in order to preserve their efficacy.”

Understanding weed biology, identifying problem areas and using herbicides as part of a wider anti-resistance strategy is key, and to help growers plan post-emergence strategies for the rest of the season, Bayer has launched a new online training programme.

The interactive module is available via the firm’s Weed Focus site (www.weedfocus.co.uk) and carries two BASIS and four National Register of Sprayer Operator points.

“Carefully planned herbicide programmes must be used from the start of the season,” Dr Anderson-Taylor added.

“Post-emergence herbicide applications should ideally be preceded by a pre-emergence spray. This not only tackles early emerging grass weeds but eases the potential resistance pressure on effective post-emergence herbicides such as Atlantis [iodosulfuron + mesosulfuron].”