No matter how you put it to use on your ranch, growing more grass is good for your bottom line. Unfortunately, broadleaf weeds, whether widespread or in patches, often get in the way of pasture production and your profit potential.
This year, you’ve got DuraCor® herbicide to clear the way to more, lower-cost forage. And because DuraCor comes with the convenience of lower use rates than what you’re likely used to, you’ll want to reference the accompanying table for labeled rates and recommendations against many of the most common troublesome pasture and rangeland weeds.
BOOTS, AND KNEES, ON THE GROUND
But first, let’s start with the fundamentals. Generally, a moderate to heavy or expanding broadleaf weed problem is an indication something is amiss in your grazing program. Perhaps those challenges are driven by too little — or, in many areas last year, too much — moisture. Adjustments to your grazing plan now will help forage grasses recover quicker, as will getting broadleaf weeds out of the way.
Scout early and scout often. But scouting through the windshield doesn’t count. Weeds likely will be exactly where they were last year and the years before that. But walking, and in some cases crawling, your pastures will help you identify and understand specifically which weeds and other low-value undesirable plants comprise your forage base. Scouting also helps you stay ahead of new species before they can establish.
Annual and biennial broadleaf weeds can green up even before pasture grasses. Frequent scouting helps you get treatment timing right for the target species. Extended control with DuraCor lets you treat those early emerging weeds with the peace of mind that control will continue well into the grazing season.
Eliminating weedy competition, sound fertility and grazing management are vital to long-term pasture health and productivity.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS WITH DURACOR
Generally, we recommend two rate ranges for broadleaf weed control with DuraCor: 12 to 16 fluid ounces per acre or 16 to 20 fluid ounces per acre, depending on the target species and application timing.
Treatment timing: Apply during early to midspring when weeds are less than 2 inches tall. For best results, apply when weeds are actively growing and conditions are favorable for plant growth.
Adjusting rates: Use a higher rate in the labeled rate range (up to 20 fluid ounces per acre) when growing conditions are less favorable, when weeds are mature, when weed foliage is tall and dense, or when maximum residual control is desired.