Weed Control in Maize

The effect of later post-emergence herbicides on yield of grain maize

The quality parameters for maize intended for use in anaerobic digesters are different than those crops intended for use in forage. For energy maize, high yield is the main driver and hence the agronomy around the crop has come more into focus. Where crop mass and preserving yield is important the best approach to weed control is pre-emergence of the crop. Post-emergence applications of herbicides can be harsh on maize and ultimately limit yield potential. This is demonstrated in the chart below.

Source : Determination of Optimum Weed Control Timing in Maize, M. Nedin Dogan, Aydin Onay, Filiz Albay 2003.