Aaron Hager, Weed Science and Integrated Pest Management Extension Specialist from the University of Illinois, spoke about the state of weed resistance in Illinois and the implications of different resistant weeds in fields.

“One of the most pervasive problems that’s facing many, many farmers and input suppliers across most of the U.S. is weed resistance,” Hager said. “And what happens when you no longer can control a particular weed species with some of the herbicides that have remained fairly effective for many years.”

Focusing on waterhemp weeds and palmer amaranth weeds, Hager showed an example of a field that was sprayed exclusively with one chemical and how quickly the field deteriorated in three years.

He also shares some methods to a more system-based approach to managing weed populations such as varying seed traits, adding tillage and more consciously spraying herbicides that are more tailored to the specific resistances you are facing.

To listen to Hager’s talk and see his presentation at Equipment Technologies, check out the video below.