Rethink Your Weed Control Strategy

By Judd Fitzgerald

Judd is a product manager for Helena Chemical Company for the western United States in the turf, ornamental, pest control and vegetation management markets.  He has over 18 years of industry experience.  Judd lives in Denver, CO.

Weed control is not complicated but how many of you can say your program is bullet proof?  Let’s take a few minutes to discuss what turf managers can do to shore up their weed control programs.

When does your weed control program start?  Most would say in the spring.  But have you ever considered starting your weed control program in the fall?  Here are some things to consider.

In the spring there is:

• Unpredictable weather
• More fertilizer applications
• More fertilizer means more mowing
• Usually more staffing issues coming out of winter

Think about it; weeds are a major issue, yet as turf managers we often start our programs during the rainiest, busiest and most hectic time of the year.  What if our emphasis on weeds began in the fall?

In the fall there is:

• More predictable weather
• Less mowing
• Fewer staffing issues

With Helena herbicides like Battleship III and Trycera, superior weed control can begin in the fall when it’s often easier to get those important broadcast applications out.  Getting a start on weed control in the fall will set you up for success the following season.