Weed trimming in soybeans
Problem
In cases where general management measures (crop rotation, cover crops) and direct weed control measures (harrowing, inter-row hoeing) have not provided sufficient control of weeds, weeds may over-top soybeans in summer. This situation creates three major problems: a) competition for light, water and nutrients, b) an increase in the density of the soil weed seed bank, and c) a reduction in grain quality parameters (increased moisture and impurities) at harvest.
Solution
One or more passages with a weed trimmer machine during summer time, when the inflorescences of the weeds overtop the soybeans, resolves the problem.
Description
With one or more passages, weeds that overtop the soybean crop are trimmed, thus avoiding further competition, seed ripening and spreading of the weeds. The method is also effective on weedy sunflowers. When applied in winter cereals, the method helps to contain grain moisture, which is an important price parameter. Practical recommendations • The possibility to control some weeds in advanced growth stages with the weed trimmer does not replace the systematic application of preventive weed control measures. • Proper timing of weed trimming is essential. Trimming must be carried out before canopy closure, as it will be difficult to drive into the crop after canopy closure. • Large working widths reduce operational costs and damages on the crop by the tractor wheels, but they also reduce the cutting height accuracy. http://orgprints.org/31045/7/PA_019_AIAB_Soybean_weed_trimmer_final_QR…
OK-Net Arable – Organic Knowledge Network Arable
Ongoing | 2015-2018
- Main funding source
- Horizon 2020 (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Belgium