A powerful new grassland weedkiller has been introduced in Ireland for 2018. UpRoot – from DHM Agrochemicals – promises to deliver broad-spectrum, long-term weed control in Irish grassland.
DHM has been introducing effective and good-value weed control solutions to the Irish market for the past 25 years.
UpRoot contains two powerful and effective proven weed control ingredients:
- Triclopyr is a highly-effective herbicide for the control of docks, nettles and scrub. This ingredient is contained in some of the leading brands of grassland herbicides. Following application, triclopyr is translocated to the weed root systems, thus allowing for effective root kill;
- 2,4-D Ester is a highly-active form of the well-known herbicide 2,4-D. The inclusion of this ingredient in UpRoot ensures a much wider level of weed control in pastures.
The combination of triclopyr and 2,4-D Ester provides probably the widest spectrum of weed control available for Irish pastures. Uproot comes in a convenient 5L pack, sufficient to cover up to 2ha; the product is also gentle on grass.
The list of weeds controlled by UpRoot is quite impressive. These include: docks; nettles; thistles; buttercups; dandelions; and bramble.
Grassland weed control advice
Background
Effective weed control in grassland is a constant challenge for Irish farmers. This year – in particular – has seen very wet weather conditions, which will have implications for weed control.
Because of grass scarcity this spring – in many cases – stock were turned out to rain-sodden fields, which had little or no grass cover. This resulted in a lot of poaching to pastures.
Therefore, grass has been slower than usual to grow. Weeds get a better chance to thrive in these conditions due to the lack of competition from grass.
Growing more grass
The severe fodder scarcity in recent times has been well documented. The priority now is to maximise grass growth and development for the remainder of 2018.
Weeds dramatically reduce the quantity of grass available for grazing or silage. For example, a 10% infestation of docks in a pasture reduces grass yields by 10%. Add to that the reduction in silage and hay palatability from weed infestation and we can see the real cost of weeds in pastures.
It is critical that grass growth is maximised to cater for current high stock numbers and to boost silage and hay reserves for next winter. Effective weed control in pastures will pay a vital role in this process.
Weed notes
Docks
Docks present a significant weed control challenge. Established docks in particular have an extensive root system, which continues to develop when the plant growth is not controlled.
Effective control requires a chemical ingredient to move to the root zone. This is done very well by UpRoot. Docks should be sprayed when growing well at the rosette stage – up to 250mm across or 250mm high.
Dock control is rarely complete in one season. This is largely because dock seeds survive passage through the animal and reinfest pastures through dung and slurry. However, docks that grow in this manner will be smaller, weaker and easier to control.
Nettles
Again, nettles possess an extensive root system. The main ingredient in UpRoot – triclopyr – has been shown to be very effective in controlling the nettle root system.
Nettles should be sprayed when actively growing before flowering.
Thistles
Thistles render grass quite unpalatable and lead to significant losses. They should be sprayed at the rosette stage – up to 250mm across or 250mm high.
Buttercup and dandelion
These should be sprayed when growing well before flowering.
Bramble
Bramble should be sprayed when growing well before senescence has started. Good weed coverage with the spray is important.
Pasture management
In order to minimise weed infestation, every effort should be made to provide good grass competition for weeds.
Land that is poached should be rolled and fertiliser should be applied as soon as possible. Open swards allow weed development. Good rotational grazing patterns, alternating grazing and cutting can help to improve grass sward densities.
In many cases, reseeding of pastures is recommended to increase sward output and quality. However, it is vital to minimise weed infestations of new pastures by following good-management practices and controlling weed infestations that arise.
The grass challenge
Control your weeds…grow more grass…make more silage and hay.
More information
Uproot comes competitively priced. Ask for UpRoot now in your local agri store. View the UpRoot brochure here. For more information on DHM Agrochemicals, just click here or call Denis Madigan at: 087 255 1272
