Win the war on weeds to produce more homegrown feed

In the North and South Island, pasture is regularly challenged by variable growing conditions, wet winters, dry summers and everything in-between. This means effective weed control is a non-negotiable part of re-grassing and pasture maintenance programs.

“Weeds compete for nutrients, moisture and light, reducing pasture establishment and pasture utilisation. A planned approach using proven solutions ensures your investment in pasture delivers maximum returns in homegrown feed, and ultimately your stock will eat more of what you have grown,” says Nufarm Business Development Manager, Jason Marriott.

When re-grassing this autumn, fast germinating weeds such as chickweed, docks, and broadleaf species can quickly outcompete young ryegrass and clover, compromising early growth and long-term persistence, he says.

“Best practice for re-grassing is to start with a weed-free base. When spraying out, apply CRUCIAL^® to eliminate existing weeds before sowing. Post-emergence weed control is equally important to protect young grass seedlings and clover. Products like Baton^® 800WSG, Dictate^® 480, Tribal^® Gold, Thistrol^® Plus and Valdo^® 800WG help ensure clean establishment,” says Jason.

To simplify your programme and build confidence in your decisions, the Nufarm Grassmanship^® app (grassmanship.nz) is a free practical digital tool for farmers and TSRs alike.

“It’s an easy tool to empower your decisions whilst keeping pastures productive and profitable this autumn,” he says.

“Your TSR can guide you through using the Grassmanship app (on your phone or theirs) to ensure you’re selecting the right herbicide strategy for your paddocks’ stage and weed pressure,” Jason adds.

Timing is everything when establishing autumn feed regardless of whether it’s with your pastures or crops. Early weed competition can dramatically reduce crop utilisation potential, meaning early action pays. Use selective herbicides such as Thistrol Plus and Valdo 800WG pregraze, or Baton 800WSG and Valdo 800WG post-graze, to keep crops clean during critical growth stages.

Optimising your programme means combining the right products with good agronomic practice:

• Monitor paddocks regularly for new weed flushes.
• Apply chemistry at the correct growth stage for the right weeds (pre-or post-graze).
• Follow label rates to maximise efficacy and longevity of control.

For more information or support with using the Grassmanship app to plan a better, more productive autumn talk to your friendly Farm Source TSR today.