Surveying for weeds in fall accomplishes two tasks. It will identify any summer species that escaped the current year’s weed control program. Adjustments can be made to control these species in the next year. Fall monitoring will also identify any winter species that are emerging.
Ideally, tree rows are weed free, whereas weeds growing in row middles may be beneficial in reducing erosion, soil compaction, water runoff, and sediment runoff to creeks and streams that ultimately impairs water quality. However, perennial weeds are problematic and should be kept from establishing in row middles.
How to survey your fields:
- After the first rains of the fall look for winter annual weeds in tree rows to check the effectiveness of any pre-emergence herbicide applications.
- Check the ground cover in row middles for perennial seedlings.
- Record weed infestation on the late fall weed survey form and use the map to show areas of problematic weeds.
Important links
- Winter annual seedlings you may see
- Perennial weeds you may see
- Late fall weed survey form
- Integrated weed management from the weed pest management guideline