5 Major Methods for Weed Control in Winter Wheat Fields to Help Wheat Overwinter Safely and Increase Yield

Wheat belongs to the genus Triticum in the grass family (Poaceae). It is one of the earliest cultivated crops in the world, and through long-term development it has become one of the food crops with the widest distribution, the largest area, the highest total production, the largest trade volume, and the highest nutritional value in the world. So how do you control weeds in winter wheat fields so the crop can overwinter? These 5 major methods can help wheat overwinter safely and increase yield.

1. Correctly choose the type of herbicide

For wheat fields dominated by broadleaf weeds, you can choose 40% carfentrazone-ethyl dry suspension concentrate or tribenuron-methyl series wettable powder products; for wheat fields dominated by malignant grass weeds such as jointed goatgrass and Italian ryegrass, it is advisable to choose 6.9% fenoxaprop-P-ethyl emulsion in water or 3% sulfosulfuron oil suspension concentrate.

2. Follow the “three observations”

“First observation”: germination and seedling emergence. Wheat seedlings show a certain tolerance to herbicides at the 3-4 leaf stage, and only spraying at this time can ensure the safety of the wheat seedlings. When wheat has few tillers and little field cover, it is beneficial for weed seedlings to fully absorb the spray solution, and spraying at low temperatures should be avoided as much as possible. “Second observation”: soil moisture. If soil moisture is poor, be sure to increase the amount of water used when spraying. “Third observation”: weather. When spraying, there must be 3-5 days with temperatures of 8-10 degrees and no wind or only a slight breeze.

3. Avoid using a single herbicide

Sulfonylurea herbicides such as tribenuron-methyl and broadleaf-star should be used in rotation with carfentrazone-ethyl and others, so as to delay the development of herbicide resistance and ensure stable control efficacy.

4. Secondary dilution must be used

For wheat field herbicides, the secondary dilution technique must be used. First dilute evenly in a small container with a small amount of warm water, then pour it into the spray equipment, add enough water, shake well, and then spray; otherwise, a mottled, uneven effect will occur.

5. Ensure operation quality and progress

Before spraying, inspect and repair the spray equipment to ensure it operates normally, and resolutely eliminate dripping, leaking, clogging, and similar problems. Operators should move forward at a constant speed to prevent missed spraying or repeated spraying.