Selection and application of weed control techniques in large-scale control programs depends on the specific circumstances for each portion of the management unit. Control techniques used in one area of the management unit may be inappropriate for another area. For example, sheep grazing leafy spurge in one area may provide cost-effective control, but sheep do not readily eat spotted knapweed and herbicides may be more appropriate where knapweed is the principal problem. Similarly, the most effective herbicide for a particular weed species may not be labeled for use in an environmentally sensitive area. Researchers are in the process of determining if combining treatments will provide a synergistic response in controlling weeds.
Some preliminary evidence suggests most control techniques are compatible.
Experimenting with combinations of control techniques may provide better and longer term control than any singly applied treatment. For example, in areas with adequate precipitation, combining Tordon 22K with fertilizer can increase the longevity of spotted knapweed control and triple forage production over either treatment applied alone. Revegetation Revegetation with desirable plants may be the best long-term alternative for controlling weeds on sites without an understory of desirable species. Establishing competitive grasses can minimize the re-invasion of rangeland weeds and provide excellent forage production. On appropriate sites, a fall herbicide application after weeds have emerged, followed by plowing or disking, and drill seeding is most effective for establishing desirable species.