Late last year, scientists reported the first signs of glyphosate resistance in the UK and described them as an early indication of the need for stewardship.
Glyphosate is hugely important to farmers and growers in the UK and we know that our members already put a lot of effort into ensuring it remains effective.
However, there is always room for improvement, so we are urging members to implement the guidelines for minimising the risk of glyphosate resistance as set out by the Weed Resistance Action Group in 2018.
As detailed in the guidelines, there are a number of key messages to remember when it comes to minimising the risk of glyphosate resistance developing:
- Maximise efficacy: apply the right dose rate (reduced rates increase the risk of reduced efficacy), at the right timing, in the right conditions
- Prevent survivors: avoid repeat applications to surviving plants
- Use alternatives: use non-chemical options (such as cultivation), where practical, and use other herbicides in sequence
- Monitor success: remove survivors and report potential resistance issues to your advisor and/or the product manufacturer