Match the right herbicide to tackle cleavers threat

Cleavers pose the biggest weed threat to cereal profits so choosing the right herbicide to protect profits is vital for maximum returns, according to Dow AgroSciences.

Effective early control of cleavers avoids both heavy yield loss and harvesting problems. The Dow AgroSciences' stable has two outstanding cleavers control products: Boxer (florasulam) and Starane XL (florasulam and fluroxypyr). Understanding which one to choose, and when, requires an understanding of cleavers' growth patterns.

"Extensive studies at Rothamsted Research have shown that controlling cleavers by GS 32 is the key to protecting economic returns," says Dow AgroSciences technical specialist David Roberts. "We recommend Boxer early in the spring when temperatures are on the cool side and cleavers are growing slowly."

Although early control of cleavers offers the best economic return, weather patterns and spray workloads mean that Starane XL gives growers a flexible solution for treating late germinating, or recovering, cleavers over a much longer season.

"Cleavers' yield robbing effect is greatest when the weeds grow quickly in warm weather. Starane XL gives that essential quick knock down of cleavers, as well as controlling chickweed and mayweeds. Ideally Starane XL is best used in later spring when temperatures are warmer and more consistent." says David Roberts.