At the same time the cost of herbicide applications have more than doubled since 1991. There are many changes in the herbicide arena. But, as with any of the changes carefully evaluate how they fit in the individual circumstance. Look at the total weed management costs including the technology fees. Examine how the herbicides are applied.
Most people continue to use a broadcast method.
Banding, with cultivation, can provide similar weed control but with less out of pocket costs. Farmers have gone away from doing their own spraying. In 1996, over 40 percent of the corn and soybean farmers did not apply any herbicides themselves. They only used custom applications. While this may be the best approach for some people, it does represent an area where there might be room for savings.