Agronomy and Horticulture Department
Date of this Version
4-11-1989
Citation
Insect Science, Plant Disease, & Weed Science, University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources 89(04) (April 11, 1989)
Abstract
In This Issue:
- Lawn Weed Control
- Musk and Plumeless Thistle
- No-Till Into Alfalfa Sod
- Nebraska Weed Tour
Lawn Weed Control
Postemergence control of dandelions, shepherdspurse, chickweed, and henbit should have been done by now or should be done soon. Granular forms of 2,4-D, Trimec, and similar herbicides are safest to use under most conditions. However, Trimec and other formulations containing dicamba (BANVEL) should be used sparingly next to and under trees and shrubs. Turflon from Dow is also labeled for control of many broadleaf weeds. Liquid herbicide formulations should be applied when there is little or no wind movement and with low spray pressure. It's a good idea not to remove clippings until the lawn has been mowed at least four times because of residual herbicide concentrations. If clippings are removed, they should not be used as a mulch around trees or flower beds.
Musk and Plumeless Thistle
Check pastures and rangeland for musk and plumeless thistle. Now is the perfect time to apply herbicides for their control. Thistles are most susceptible to herbicides when they are in the rosette stage. Musk and plumeless thistle grow under cool conditions. Therefore, herbicides are slower acting but still effective. It's important to apply herbicides before the thistles bolt. It's much better to treat a thistle rosette on a 50° F day than a bolted plant on a 70° F day.
No-Till Into Alfalfa Sod
Killing alfalfa with herbicides is more economical than plowing, is very effective, and leaves the soil less subject to erOS10n. An excellent seedbed results from herbicide-killed sod whether the crop is planted no-till or following light tillage. The most consistent treatment we have evaluated for alfalfa control is 1 qt. 2,4-D + 0.5 pt. Banvell A with 2 qt 2,4-D ester/A a close second. The herbicide approach will cost $5.00-$6.00/A + application compared to $10.00-$15.00 for plowing and seedbed preparation. Alfalfa should be actively growing and have at least 4" of green growth at treatment.
Nebraska Weed Tour
Mark your calendar. The 1989 Nebraska Weed Tour will be held the week of June 19. We will be viewing Weed Science research across the state during this tour. Details will be provided in a later newsletter.
Comments
Copyright 1989 University of Nebraska