Articles tagged with Weeds
Researchers found that a uniform grid-like pattern of crop sowing leads to higher yields (76% of trials) and fewer weeds (73% of trials). This approach can reduce herbicide use and fertiliser runoff, resulting in more sustainable agriculture.
Researchers found that cover-crop biomass and carbon to nitrogen ratios significantly influenced weed suppression, with certain mixtures producing more effective control. Cover crops also promoted greater crop yields when used as a sole weed control measure.
New research finds that atrazine regulations have been successful in reducing overall concentration of atrazine in water. However, the rate of breakdown to less toxic compound DEA is influenced by soil microbes and climate. The study also shows that dry areas without tile drainage lead to faster breakdown of atrazine.
Researchers investigated restored prairies and found that first-year weather conditions have a lasting impact on their success. This unexpected finding suggests that long-term weather forecasts can help inform planting decisions to mitigate weed growth.
A new study by Penn State researchers found that organic soybean producers using no-till and reduced-tillage production methods can achieve similar yields at competitive costs compared to traditional tillage-based production. This sustainable method reduces labor, fuel, and input costs while conserving soil health and water quality.
A new study reveals the extent to which high-yielding rice varieties favored in the Green Revolution have evolved into weedy populations worldwide, outcompeting cultivated varieties. The scientists found that over a third of Asian weed strains originated from elite cultivars developed during this era.
A two-year study found that 96% of bird feed mixes contained seeds from pigweed species weeds, which can represent a significant threat to agriculture. Researchers also discovered resistance to glyphosate in Palmer amaranth and waterhemp seeds in some mixes.
Weedy rice is a significant threat to global rice productivity, with $45 million annual losses in the US alone. Researchers aim to characterize its genetic basis and traits that enable it to outcompete rice.
The discovery of Puccinia abrupta var. partheniicola, or winter rust, provides a second natural enemy to combat parthenium, which is aggressively spreading and causing severe harm to humans and livestock. The presence of this biological control could significantly reduce biomass and seed production of the weed.
A new framework guides the management of terrestrial invasive species in South Africa, prioritizing targets in control efforts. The approach combines big data and citizen science, focusing on poorer municipalities most impacted by invasive weeds.
A team of researchers used a computerized particle analyzer to count weed seeds with high accuracy. The technology can process 2,000-2,500 seeds in just three minutes, significantly reducing the time required for seed counting.
Researchers have discovered that contaminated groundwater in Balkan villages is a significant source of human exposure to aristolochic acids, potent kidney toxins. The discovery highlights the urgent need for weed control measures to reduce the incidence of Balkan endemic nephropathy.
Researchers at Kobe University discovered the orobanchol synthase responsible for converting non-canonical strigolactone carlactonoic acid into canonical strigolactone orobanchol. This breakthrough enables artificial regulation of plant growth and weed germination, with potential applications in improving crop production and mitigating...
A recent study from the University of Illinois found that the Harrington Seed Destructor (HSD) killed nearly 100% of US agronomic weed seeds in a lab study. The HSD, an impact mill developed and widely used in Australia, was tested on common US weeds without field conditions. The study shows that even damaged seeds don
Researchers at UC Davis have identified novel inhibitors that can disrupt redox signaling to prevent haustorium initiation in parasitic plants. This breakthrough could lead to new control methods against economically damaging agricultural pests.
The UK is losing 0.82 million tonnes of wheat yield each year due to herbicide-resistant black-grass, with potential implications for national food security. Researchers estimate that the worst-case scenario could result in an annual cost of £1 billion and a wheat yield loss of 3.4 million tonnes per year.
The study found that specific components of soil health, such as the abundance and activity of soil animals, affect crop productivity. Measurements of soil invertebrates can inform assessments of soil health. The researchers also discovered that optimizing biotic processes in soil can optimize crop production.
Researchers discovered impact milling destroys weed seeds, reducing viability by <0.4%> and improving long-term weed management. The method effectively controls Palmer amaranth and other resistant weeds in soybean fields.
A literature review of 229 studies found that multiple techniques and follow-up treatments are most effective in controlling buffelgrass. The invasive weed can outcompete native species by accessing deeper water and nutrients, highlighting the need for restoration of drought-tolerant native species.
A new study found that planting wheat at commercially recommended density can reduce weed biomass and seed production by up to 78% and 50%, respectively. This approach also causes weeds to grow more upright, making them easier to capture during harvesting.
Researchers identified two mechanisms driving herbicide-resistant weed emergence in Ontario: pollen and seed dispersal via wind and water, and spontaneous genetic mutations. This study highlights the need for integrated management approaches to minimize gene flow and resistances, including thorough equipment cleaning and crop rotation.
Studies examine the effects of temperature on itchgrass and divine nightshade seeds in sugarcane fields. Higher temperatures can kill weeds, but varying conditions are needed for optimal control, considering seed coat structure and soil insulation.
Early rice growers unwittingly selected for barnyard grass, which later evolved to mimic rice plants, allowing it to escape detection and spread globally. The study sequenced the genomes of rice-mimic and non-mimic forms of the weed to understand this process.
A new study published in Invasive Plant Science and Management reveals that tailoring treatments to specific weed control objectives can lead to improved outcomes. Researchers found that fewer, well-timed mowing events were more effective than frequent mowing in controlling invasive thistle.
Researchers have discovered that Palmer amaranth has evolved multiple mutations to resist herbicides, including the gly-210 deletion and an arginine substitution, allowing it to evade control methods. The plant appears to be naturally tolerant to post-emergence PPO-inhibitor application.
A new statistical modeling tool uses features of a weed species and geography to predict high-risk areas where weeds are likely to spread first. Land management authorities can use the tool to identify at-risk areas that require careful monitoring, improving early detection and effective containment of invasive weeds.
A study in Weed Science found waterhemp has evolved resistance to four distinct herbicide sites of action, including PPO inhibitors and PS II inhibitors. The resistant population exhibited a seven-fold resistance to atrazine and a four- to six-fold resistance to PPO-inhibiting herbicides.
Researchers investigated the impact of dicamba-based spray mixtures on pH levels. The study found that BAPMA formulations increased pH, while potassium salt of glyphosate decreased it. Understanding pH effects is crucial for sustainable and environmentally responsible use of dicamba products.
Researchers found that mixing glyphosate with dicamba formulations consistently lowered the pH of the spray solution below 5.0, a critical value according to dicamba application labels. The study suggests that glyphosate in tank mixes could be a culprit behind dicamba drift and volatility issues.
Researchers Sally Taylor and Seth Dorman recommend scouting, threshold-based management, and resistance management strategies to effectively manage tarnished plant bugs in Mid-Atlantic cotton. They emphasize the importance of avoiding planting nearby hosts and using certain varieties to minimize intensive management.
Scientists are racing to find solutions as Palmer amaranth develops resistance to multiple herbicides, outcompeting crops for resources. The weed's ability to thrive and produce new generations of resistant plants poses significant threats to crop yields.
Climate change and elevated CO2 levels contribute to the evolution of weeds, including increased competitive abilities and herbicide resistance. Research found that drought and elevated CO2 cause genetic and phenotypic changes in individual weed populations.
A recent study published in Weed Science has made significant progress in understanding the genetic basis of sex determination in Palmer amaranth and waterhemp. The researchers were able to distinguish between male and female plants with a high degree of accuracy, paving the way for new control strategies.
Researchers at the University of Illinois identified genetic signatures that distinguish male from female waterhemp and Palmer amaranth plants, a crucial step in developing genetic control. The discovery aims to introduce genetically modified male plants that would contain a gene drive to control the damaging weeds.
Studies show that both temperature and glyphosate increase dicamba volatility, leading to increased off-target movement and damage to crops. Researchers recommend avoiding mixing glyphosate with low-volatile dicamba formulations, such as XtendiMax, to minimize the risk of injury to non-dicamba-tolerant plants.
Waterhemp, a broadleaf weed common in corn and soybean fields, has become resistant to multiple herbicides, including Group 15s. Scientists have confirmed the resistance in a new study from the University of Illinois, which highlights the need for farmers to rethink long-term management strategies.
Researchers found no herbicide-resistant mutants among over 70 million grain amaranth seeds, indicating a very low mutation rate. The study suggests that low-level herbicide application does not contribute to the onset of new mutations conferring resistance.
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife Research reviewed plant population studies to update recommendations. They found that yield is optimized at around 15,000 plants per acre, but there is no yield benefit to high populations.
Researchers explored dicamba-resistant kochia populations in fallow fields near Hays, Kansas, and found moderate to high levels of resistance. Spring-applied herbicides provided better extended control, reducing emergence by 85-95% over three-four months.
Researchers found that cover crops can significantly reduce horseweed density and size inequality at the time of herbicide application. This reduces the development of herbicide-resistant weeds and offers a promising approach to managing resistant weeds.
Researchers at Chinese Academy of Sciences develop CRISPRed wheat with tolerance to sulfonylurea, imidazolinone, and aryloxyphenoxy propionate-type herbicides. The trait offers low-risk weed control for millions of multi-cropping farmers in China.
A global team of researchers proposes a new approach to managing weeds by considering their impact on society as a whole. The team suggests that traditional methods focus too much on individual landowners and instead recommends a cross-boundary approach that prioritizes shared goals and collective interests.
Researchers have developed a drone-based system to spot treat weeds, reducing the risk of pesticide drift. The system uses AI-powered imaging and neural networks to identify weeds and deliver targeted pesticides.
Neil Rhodes, a professor at UTIA, has been named Fellow of the Southern Weed Science Society for his significant contributions to the field. He was recognized for his tireless work on herbicide stewardship and dedication to mentoring young professionals.
Researchers predict wheat weed growth to reduce herbicide usage, allowing for targeted treatment and environmental gains. By analyzing satellite images and spatial data, the study identifies optimal locations for herbicide application, reducing waste and costs.
Larry Steckel, a UTIA professor, received the Outstanding Educator Award for his contributions to weed science education. He developed training modules addressing dicamba herbicide drift issues, leading to significant reductions in damaged crop acres in Tennessee.
Researchers identify specific genes, including SbGSTF1 and a tandem GST gene, responsible for safener efficacy in grain sorghum. The discovery sheds light on how safeners work and could lead to broader applications against insect herbivores, chemical pollutants, or environmental stresses.
Researchers found that tilled fields had smaller ant nests, which consume fewer weed seeds, while no-till fields had more evenly distributed ant nests. This suggests that preserving ant colonies by reducing tillage could benefit farmers in managing weeds.
Researchers at Montana State University are leading a multi-pronged approach to control bindweed and creeping thistle, two chief hardships in organic farming. The four-year, $2 million grant aims to develop effective management strategies that preserve soil health.
A new study reveals waterhemp's unique detoxification pathway for topramezone, making chemical control difficult. The finding suggests that the weed uses a different mechanism than corn, rendering current herbicides ineffective.
A study by Cambridge University researchers found Italian ryegrass resistant to multiple herbicides, including clethodim and glyphosate. The study recommends preemergence herbicides for effective control of the weed in fruit and nut tree crops.
New research reveals that fall-applied residual herbicides can damage rice crop performance, with pyroxasulfone, S-metolachlor, and trifluralin causing greater injury than clomazone. Only clomazone is recommended for pre-plant applications to target glyphosate-resistant Italian ryegrass.
A team of scientists will investigate solutions to limit the impact of annual bluegrass on turf systems, evaluating cultural practices and non-chemical management options. The project aims to improve profitability and social benefits for sod production farms, golf courses, athletic fields, and residential turf systems.
Researchers are sampling annual bluegrass populations across Tennessee to quantify herbicide resistance and develop new diagnostic assays. The goal is to optimize management plans that integrate cultural and chemical techniques to mitigate resistance.
The study reveals that botanic soil amendments with popular weeds like black nightshade and jimsonweed can effectively control nematodes. Researchers report a significant reduction in female nematode populations when treated with weed extracts, making these natural alternatives a promising eco-friendly solution.
Researchers confirm glyphosate resistance in junglerice, a weedy grass affecting rice, corn, and vegetable crops. Resistance mechanisms identified as target-site mutation and reduced translocation of glyphosate, emphasizing the importance of integrated control methods.
Bicyclopyrone, a corn herbicide, shows potential as an alternative for extended residual weed control in watermelon crops. The herbicide was found to be safe and effective against common weeds, reducing yield losses by up to 82%.
Scientists at the University of Illinois and USDA's Agricultural Research Service promote cooperative weed management as a highly effective solution to curb herbicide resistance. By working together and sharing best practices, farmers can delay the evolution and spread of resistance, buying time for up to two decades.
Researchers at Texas A&M AgriLife have developed a fertilizer system that applies phosphite to engineered cotton crops, allowing them to utilize the nutrient while suppressing weeds. This technology has shown promise in inhibiting growth of glyphosate-resistant Palmer amaranth and other herbicide-resistant weeds.
Transgenic cotton plants expressing the bacterial gene ptxD can convert phosphite into phosphate, outcompeting weeds that lack the gene. This selective fertilization approach facilitates weed control without herbicides.