ARS | Publication request: Herbicide Resistant Weed Management

Submitted to: Potato Progress
Publication Type: Popular Publication
Publication Acceptance Date: June 16, 2010
Publication Date: September 16, 2010
Citation: Boydston, R.A. 2010. Herbicide Resistant Weed Management. Potato Progress. Vol. X, No. 10, pg. 1-3.

Technical Abstract: Metribuzin and rimsulfuron are the only two herbicides registered for postemergence broadleaf weed control in potatoes, and represent the two classes of herbicides, triazines and ALS inhibitors, with the most reported cases of resistant weeds world wide. Other postemergence grass herbicides belonging to the acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitor group also have had resistant weeds develop at a relatively fast pace. We are currently collecting weed seed from potato fields to test for herbicide resistance. Information gained will confirm herbicide resistance in the Columbia Basin potato growing region and establish the response of the herbicide resistant weed biotypes to herbicides with other modes of action. The information could be used to improve management of herbicide resistant weed populations and to delay development of herbicide resistant weed populations. Assessing and monitoring of herbicide resistance and developing strategies to delay herbicide resistance has proven to be less costly than waiting for herbicide resistance to develop and dealing with it after it develops.