Edge herbicide has been the first defence for weed control in all classes of dry beans in Western Canada for a long time.
On this episode of the RealAgriculture Edible Bean School, host Bernard Tobin is joined by Alan Christison, from Gowan Canada, to discuss how growers can optimize an Edge application and when to consider other options.
In the video, Christison discusses Edge MicroActiv, a granular, soil-applied residual herbicide for pre-emergent weed control. He notes the herbicide will help control Group 2 resistant weeds like kochia, redroot pigweed, lamb’s quarters and wild oats in dry beans, as well as other weeds. The product’s unique Group 3 mode of action also plays a valuable role in a herbicide rotation strategy.
Good Edge performance starts with good application, says Christison. The product needs to be spread evenly with an air boom delivery system (no spin spreaders) and also needs to be uniformly applied because it moves very little once applied to the soil. “Lots of retails and custom applicators in dry bean areas have been applying Edge for a long time and do an excellent job,” says Christison. He adds that Salford’s Valmar spreader lineup is another option for growers to apply the granular product. (Story continues after the video.)
Application timing is also key. “Edge MicroActiv takes some time to activate, so if you did not apply last fall we recommend a minimum of 10 days ahead of seeding so it is fully activated when you plant your crop.” If weeds do manage to get the jump on the herbicide and emerge before the crop, Christison recommends growers use a less expensive non-selective herbicide to clean up these escapes.
In the video, Christison offers tips on how to ensure Edge is effective in both conventional and reduced tillage environments. He also identifies some management watch-outs that growers need to be aware of including challenges presented by thick, heavy straw, stubble burning and fields where manure has been applied.
For growers looking to expand the weed defence and control weeds like mallow, mustard and volunteer canola, Christison says Permit herbicide is another option that is safe on all classes of beans. It provides another layer of residual control and is most commonly applied before ground crack. There are, however, rotation restrictions — canola or sunflowers can’t be grown the following year.
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