Pre-em weed control in maize

The yield and quality of maize can be significantly reduced as a result of competition from weeds particularly during the establishment phase of the crop.

The earlier the weeds are controlled, the less chance they have to compete with the crop for water, nutrients and light. Therefore, pre-em herbicides should form the main part of the herbicide strategy since they offer the best opportunity to control both grass and broad-leaved weeds and allow the crop to establish as quickly as possible.

Advantages of pre-emergence herbicides

• Starts the weed control as early as possible in the crop
• Allows the crop to get off to the best and cleanest start possible
• Reduces timing pressure on the post-emergence sprays
• Avoids possible herbicide growth check to emerged crop from post-emergence sprays
• Weather delays are less critical compared to post-emergence applications

Wing P^® and Stomp^® Aqua provide broad spectrum pre-emergence control of grass and broad-leaved weeds in maize and sweetcorn* (with or without a plastic mulch cover*)

How to get the best out of pre-em herbicides

• Create a fine, firm and consolidated seedbed for best seed/soil contact and optimum activity from the pre-emergence herbicide.
• Ensure seed is covered with 5cm settled soil.
• Apply as soon as possible after drilling - soil moisture is required for products to be activated.
• Best results occur if rain falls within seven days of application.