Based on discussions with growers and other needs assessment methods, we decided to do some a trial and a demonstration looking at the efficacy of the Roundup-Ready weed control program, potential costs for growers, and the yields of the variety. In contrast to sweet corn growers, forage corn growers have an ever-increasing number of weed control options, including using genetically modified crops. The most commonly used weed control method is preemergence. Each option has positives and negatives associated with each. Preplant methods require some incorporation which does not fit well with our typical spring-time environment.
Most growers prefer preemergence sprays and depend on timely moisture for herbicide activation.
Postemergence applications allow producers to see what the weed pressure is, what species are present, and select herbicide combinations to get best control. It is also important to discuss some of the potential problems with these technologies. One very important consideration is that corn pollen may be blown by the wind onto organic fields putting organic producer certification at risk. One must be aware of this to avoid problems. Cross pollination from similar plant species and weeds may make weed resistance to Roundup a larger issue.