Angus’ Agro Advice – March/April

Double Knocking

  • A good early break presents an opportunity to use the double knock strategy and extend the longevity of knockdown herbicides
  • This involves spraying the same weed population twice with two different non-selective chemistries
    • Spraying a lethal dose of glyphosate and following up 1-5 days later with paraquat or SpraySeed (pre-emergents can be tank-mixed)
    • Target any paddocks with underlying herbicide resistant populations

Snail Strategies

  • Following this week’s rainfall events, it is the opportune time to capitalise on the increased snail activity and growers should be considering baiting before snails enter their breeding cycle
  • It is a numbers game and any opportunity to reduce their population size is essential (especially before laying eggs)
  • Humid conditions and undisturbed soil surfaces both increase the likelihood of snails encountering bait
  • Pre-sowing applications must still be complimented by an in-crop application to prevent plant damage

Reflex  2023

  • In 2023, if you are planning to use Reflex herbicide, you will need to obtain a Reflex Reference number (RRN) prior to collection. The process is being managed by the National Grower Register meaning you will need your NGR number.
  • To complete the stewardship course, please click the link below:
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Once you have obtained your RRN, please forward to Richard via email – Evpuneq.pbbcre@ahgevra.pbz.nh  

Physical Pre-Seeding Boom Spray Check

  1. Clean all filters to remove any built up residues and replace where necessary
  2. Conduct a physical test on all spray nozzles to measure output. Ensure you replace any nozzles with wear and tear, clogs or impurities
  3. Check that the pump is running correctly to ensure there are no pressure leaks
  4. Lubricate all grease points on your boom spray

Seeding Boom Spray Tips

  1. Read through paddock plans and clarify any questions long before filling the boom spray up with chemical!!
  2. Tank mix order is the cause of a large percentage of incompatibility and tank issues
    • Ensure at least 50% of the boom spray is filled with water before adding any chemical
    • Allow any powdered or granule herbicides (WDG/WP/WG) sufficient time to disperse into the boom spray before adding the next product. Cold water will slow this process down.