Grassland and forage crops

More effective grassland weed control with foliar nutrition

When getting the sprayer out to control grassland weeds on grass this summer, it’s worth considering adding a foliar fertiliser to the tank for two reasons:

1. The effectiveness of herbicides on grassland can be improved if the correct foliar fertiliser is tank-mixed with the herbicide. This foliar fertiliser is absorbed by both the target and non-target species and stimulates plant growth, including the weeds. The plants which are growing actively are more likely to translocate the active ingredients within the herbicide effectively around the plant and down into the roots. This results in the herbicide working more effectively on the target weed species.

2. A phytotoxic effect of grass herbicides is often seen as a ‘check’ in growth on newly sprayed swards, and especially when growing conditions are not ideal. The application of a foliar fertiliser, in combination with the herbicide, helps offset any side effects of the herbicide on the sward. An added bonus on newly established leys is the improved growth of grass seedlings, which in turn will promote tillering - reducing light and space for any new germinating weeds.

We recommend YaraVita Croplift Pro at a rate of 5 kg/ha (2 kg/acre) for inclusion in a tank mix with your chosen grass herbicide. This foliar fertiliser, containing multiple nutrients and micronutrients for foliar application on grassland, is ideal at times of stress or periods of rapid growth. It has excellent plant absorption properties, giving an immediate and long-lasting feeding effect on stressed grass crops.