Roadside managers face numerous challenges throughout the year, including limited time, manpower shortages, and adverse weather conditions, which can make it difficult to complete their programs. Weeds and invasive plants, which are often hard to control, remain a persistent threat. However, fall roadside applications offer a valuable opportunity to enhance and complete these programs more effectively.
Historically, most roadside herbicide applications have been carried out in the spring and early summer. This time frame is limited, as vegetation can quickly grow too tall, necessitating mowing. Spring applications of pre-emergent products also rely on rainfall for activation, which can lead to poor control in areas experiencing dry spring conditions. Additionally, many challenging and invasive plants do not emerge until the end of this early spray season. If there are extended periods of bad weather or a shortage of skilled labor, the program may be delayed or left incomplete.
FALL APPLICATION BENEFITS
Fall applications help alleviate many of these potential problems. Moving applications to the fall allows the program to be spread over more time. Bottlenecks in labor and equipment availability can be minimized. In many parts of the country, good spray weather occurs more often in the fall. Fall applications occur after most crops have been harvested, minimizing any potential for injury that could occur if applications were made in the spring.
Fall applications incorporating long lasting pre-emergent and post-emergent products will control the weeds present and reduce weed germination into the next spring. In some parts of the country fall is the best time to apply pre-emergent products, since this is the rainy season. Fall applications also allow the moisture from snowfall to activate the product in the spring.
PRODUCTS
The key products for fall roadside management include Esplanade 200 SC™, Method® 240 SL, Milestone®, TerraVue™ and Vista® XRT. These herbicides provide broad-spectrum, long-lasting control of troublesome weeds. Esplanade offers residual suppression, while Method is effective against tough woody species and broadleaf weeds. Milestone targets broadleaf and invasive species like thistles and knapweeds without harming desirable grasses. TerraVue controls resistant broadleaf weeds in pre- and post-emergent applications, and Vista XRT is ideal for areas where other herbicides fall short. Together, these products manage invasive species and reduce winter annual germination, minimizing maintenance needs, fire risks, and promoting safer, cleaner roadways.
CUSTOM BLENDS
Custom tank-mixes are available to guarantee that the appropriate products and application rates are tailored to the specific needs of each roadside management program. These customized blends take into account factors such as local weed species, soil conditions, and environmental regulations, providing a targeted approach that maximizes herbicide effectiveness while minimizing waste. By using pre-mixed formulations, the burden on customers to measure and mix products themselves is eliminated, reducing the potential for errors and ensuring precise application.Â
Azelis A&ES has experienced representatives that can help you make the right decision for your land management objectives. We are ready to provide you with a safe and effective solution. Talk to one of our technical experts to get started today!