Keys to successful Maize agronomy this spring

Weed control in maize can be a challenge to get right, with incorrect strategies leading to up to 50% loss in yield. Weed pressure varies between soil type, previous crop and land management. Seedbed conditions ultimately effect establishment of maize, which in turn leads on to its ability to outcompete weeds. Maize likes a warm and moist seedbed so it is better to wait for warm weather than drilling into a cold seedbed. Quick and strong establishment is key to allow maximum yield potential to be reached due to the short growing season. In response to a light friable seedbed with adequate moisture maize seedlings can germinate and in combination with a starter fertiliser, (50/50 DAP/ Polysulphate blend), strong seedlings can develop with good rooting and get away.  

As a spring crop, maize presents the opportunity to use a non-selective herbicide such as a glyphosate, enabling the grower to start with a clean seedbed. A pre emergence herbicide can provide some effective insurance in the event a contact post emergence herbicide gets delayed through poor weather conditions. This also takes the pressure off the post emergence herbicide treatment. Smaller sensitised weeds are always easier to control. Weeds will also be at the very least sensitised in response to a pre emergence herbicide, allowing improved control with the post emergence application. Where grass weeds such as barnyard grass are the target weed, Fornet OD (nicosulfuron) will need to feature in the post emergence tank mix, with the addition of Temsa (Mesotrione) all the key target, broadleaved weeds are added, such as Black nightshade, Fat Hen & Black Bindweed. A further inclusion of Diva (pyridate) will enhance control of Mayweeds and Fat Hen with the added addition of cranesbill. Thistles can be easily controlled by Shield (clopyralid). The challenge we have is that weed control becomes very difficult in drought conditions when both the maize and the weeds are under stress, difficult weeds such as Fat Hen rapidly form wax on their leaves which is hard for the herbicide to penetrate. Keep monitoring for any macro, particularly Phosphate, deficiencies in the growing crop, boosts of Nitrogen and Zinc and carefully selected biostimulants can help keep the plant growing healthy for more prolonged periods during a drought.

If you want to speak to our agronomy experts, call 01243 756610.

You can also read our Ultimate Guide to Forage Maize HERE.