Building a Season-Long Soybean Weed Control Program

Preplant and preemergence investments help ensure growers start the season strong by keeping weeds controlled and supporting healthy soybean emergence. Postemergence herbicides with long-lasting residual activity help ensure the season finishes just as strong.

Devonne Marshall, regional account manager for Valent U.S.A., recommends tailoring weed control plans based on the specific weeds present in each field.

An effective early-season weed control program should account for weed spectrum, weed pressure, soil pH, rotational flexibility and sustainability goals.

“Effective modes of action are key,” Marshall says. “The challenge is identifying the weed spectrum, selecting the right modes of action and applying herbicides in a way that supports long-term success.”

Managing resistance can be challenging. A comprehensive weed management program that includes overlapping residual activity—such as a premium preemergence herbicide followed by a postemergence application—can make a significant difference.

“Effective, long-term weed control requires rotating modes of action, overlapping residuals and timely herbicide applications,” says Lynn Hurley, Valent U.S.A. territory manager in South Dakota.

Investing in multiple effective modes of action helps manage resistance while controlling yield-limiting weeds. A strong preemergence herbicide program sets the foundation for success.

Following a preemergence application, Perpetuo^® Herbicide can be applied postemergence to extend Group 15 chemistry and provide added flexibility.

“That’s going to give you rotational flexibility. It fits multiple trait platforms and provides extended residual control against tough-to-manage weeds,” Marshall says.

Be Ready for Late Weed Flushes

As temperatures rise, late-emerging weeds can create competition for soybean plants that have not yet reached canopy.

As preemergence herbicides begin to decline, postemergence herbicides with long-lasting residual activity are essential for controlling late-season weeds such as waterhemp and Palmer amaranth.

“The long-lasting residual activity provided by Perpetuo is key to controlling these tough weeds,” Hurley says.

Perpetuo Herbicide is a flexible solution across multiple trait systems, providing extended residual control and helping bridge the gap between preemergence and postemergence applications.

“Perpetuo delivers the overlapping residual activity needed to follow up a preemergence program,” Marshall says. “It bridges the gap from early-season applications through the rest of the growing season.”

As a premix with two modes of action, Perpetuo provides effective control of problem weeds including velvetleaf, Palmer amaranth and waterhemp.

Achieving Sustainability Goals

Choosing effective modes of action is critical not only for weed control but also for resistance management. At the same time, herbicide programs must align with each grower’s agronomic and sustainability goals.

“The Valent family of soybean herbicides offers flexibility across conventional, no-till and minimum-tillage systems,” Marshall says. “There are multiple options that support conservation tillage and sustainability goals.”

Work with your local Valent representative to develop a program tailored to your operation. For more information about Perpetuo Herbicide, visit the Perpetuo product page or contact your local sales representative.

Always read and follow label instructions.