Evaluation of Variable Input Level Weed Control Programs in Wheat

Winter annual weeds including common chickweed, henbit, purple deadnettle, marestail, and Italian ryegrass pose continuous threats to Kentucky wheat acres. Several of these weeds have become herbicide resistant in Kentucky wheat acres including recent confirmations of glyphosate and pinoxaden resistance in Italian ryegrass. Depending on the level of weed infestation the number of herbicide inputs can vary and number of herbicide applications can vary from one to three applications. Kentucky wheat growers strive to grow the highest yielding and quality wheatand this includes maximizing their herbicide inputs. Although, with current commodity prices and poor weather conditions producers are continually looking to spend less on inputs while maintaining the level of high yielding wheat traditionally grown in Kentucky. The numerous options and timing of herbicide applications in wheat brings about the question of how to maximize weed control while reducing inputs, all while minimizing risk of herbicide resistance selection. Objective: Evaluate herbicide programs that vary in number of herbicide modes of action and application timings for season long control of Italian ryegrass, marestail, and other winter annuals, weed seed production, and wheat yield Research Methods: Research will be established at the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center on fields with established populations of ryegrass, marestail, and other winter annuals. Herbicide programs will vary from preemergence only, postemergence only, and multiple application timings. Research will be conducted in small plots with applications being applied with backpack booms. Evaluations will include visual weed control, end of the season weed counts, end of season weed seed production, and wheat yield.