12 Modes Of Action

This winter, I plan to learn more about the modes of actions so I can do a better job of controlling resistant and non-resistant weeds on my farm.  You can earn $25 per module from BASF by studying these principles with me and we can discuss them here on HyMark High Spots.

The principles that work best for me is crop rotation and soil health.  By balancing the 17 nutrients crops need for maximum productivity also increases weed health but I can control them with different modes of action.  BASF and other companies offer solutions that work on my farm.

No-Till decreases the weed pressure by not continually stirring the soil.  That is a basic concept that decreases weed competition while decreasing erosion and improving soil health.  Nearly level no-till soil will wash easily because it is so light and fluffy on top which really increases water infiltration.  That's because no soil uncovered can't handle the power of the raindrop and the rill erosion that will become gullies if left unchecked.

This is why soil was meant to be covered.  Cover crops have taken weed control and soil health to a new level.  I can still use a little 2,4-D, dicamba and metribuzin with a grass cover but they are going to smoke radish and other broad leaf cover crops.  We need to refine this as resistant weeds like Marestail are present right now and we want to prevent their spread for the next crop.  A fall herbicide application is called for but so are cover crops.  How will you do both?

I can do both with wheat or rye or possibly oats.  I need to determine which is the biggest problem, erosion or resistant weeds.  I need to address both.

How will you use modes of actions at different times of the year to build your soil while controlling weeds?

It's a big job, for sure.

Ed Winkle