The profitability of cereal crops, especially in Spain, where they are widely grown, faces several threats, one of the most significant being the presence of weeds. These unwanted plants compete for essential resources and can negatively affect the productivity of our crops. In this article, we will explore key strategies, such as weed control and biostimulation, to boost cereal production.
Winter cereals and their main weeds
Winter cereals are particularly susceptible to direct competition from weeds, which include a variety of species, both broadleaf and narrowleaf. Among the most common are:
- Capsella bursa-pastoris (Shepherd’s purse)
- Anthemis arvensis (Wild chamomile)
- Convulvulus spp. (Bindweed)
- Diplotaxis sp. (Jaramago)
- Rumex sp. (Sorrel)
- Veronica hederaefolia (Veronica, Veronica hederaefolia , Veronica hederaefolia , Veronica hederaefolia )
- Bromus sp. (Bromine, hanging spikelet)
- Avena sterilis (Crazy oat)
- Alopecurus myosuroides (foxtail)
- Lolium perenne (Vallico)
The presence of these species is influenced by factors such as crop rotation, soil type, planting date, ecosystem, climate and mechanical tillage.
Integrated management and combined strategies for weed control in cereals
Integrated management emphasizes accurate weed diagnosis based on field history and early species identification. Various strategies, such as crop rotation, fallowing and altering the planting date, combine to optimize the effectiveness of weed control. The synergy between chemical control and other techniques is essential, and among the most widely used selective herbicides in cereals are substances such as 2,4-D, MCPA, Metribuzin, Fluroxypyr, Fenoprop, Mecoprop, Dichlorprop and Tribenuron.
Biostimulants: The Perfect Ally
Biostimulants play a crucial role in improving treatment efficacy and enhancing optimal plant development. These products not only alleviate vegetative stress, but also provide amino acids, microelements and energy, essential elements to enhance the quality and quantity of grain production. Biostimulants rich in amino acids, especially those with a high percentage of glutamic acid, stand out for their ability to synthesize other essential amino acids and stimulate nitrogen metabolism, thus improving chlorophyll biosynthesis.
Future for Integrated Weed Management in Cereals
The strategic application of post-emergence herbicides in combination with sustainable cultural practices is essential for weed control in cereal crops. Avoiding adverse conditions, following label directions and obtaining guidance from technical advisors are key. Continuous innovation in products and techniques will be essential to achieve sustainable management, reducing resistance and maximizing crop profitability.
In the future, the search for environmentally friendly solutions will be crucial. The strategic combination of effective herbicides, biostimulants and cultural practices will not only maximize results, but also ensure more effective weed control in cereal agriculture, promoting more sustainable, balanced and productive farming practices. Discover the way to a more efficient and environmentally friendly grain farming!
