Managing Weed Resistance in Peanuts with Valor® EZ Herbicide

Palmer amaranth is currently resistant to seven different modes of action. For peanut growers, that means products once relied on for control may no longer provide dependable results.

“Weed resistance is getting more and more troublesome every year,” says John Pawlak, product development manager for Valent U.S.A.

The first step in minimizing resistance development is rotating modes of action whenever possible. Valor^® EZ Herbicide is a Group 14 herbicide, so including a Group 15 herbicide with residual activity can help prevent Group 14 resistance development.

Valor EZ can play a vital role in minimizing weed resistance in peanut production systems.

Additional strategies to reduce resistance include using full labeled rates and rotating crops. Cutting application rates to save costs can lead to reduced weed control and increased resistance pressure over time.

Rotating peanuts with crops such as corn or cotton—where different herbicide modes of action can be used—helps manage Palmer amaranth and other difficult weeds.

“The Valor EZ use rate for preemergence weed control in peanuts is three ounces per acre, and it’s very important not to cut this rate,” Pawlak says. “Reducing herbicide rates can increase selection pressure and negatively impact long-term weed control.”

Ensure a Strong Start

The first four to six weeks of the growing season are critical for maximizing yield potential. An effective residual herbicide like Valor EZ helps ensure a strong start by reducing early-season weed competition.

When applied at the recommended rate of three ounces per acre, Valor EZ provides up to six weeks of residual control. This allows peanuts to establish quickly, reduces weed seed production and lowers overall weed pressure.

“It’s very important to use the three-ounce rate of Valor Herbicide for control of these key weeds,” Pawlak says.

Valor EZ Herbicide effectively controls Palmer amaranth, Florida beggarweed, hairy indigo and other small-seeded broadleaf weeds that are problematic in peanut production.

To learn more about weed control solutions for peanuts, visit Valent.com or contact your local Valent representative.

Always read and follow label instructions.