Paraquat: a key solution for herbicide-resistant crops
Paraquat is playing an increasingly important role in Integrated Weed ManagementDescription A decision support system for crop protection which focuses on long-term prevention or suppression of pest problems with minimum impact on human health, the environment, and non-target organisms. IPM takes into consideration all available pest control techniques and tactics (cultural, mechanical, biological, chemical). IPM emphasizes the growth of healthy crops for better productivity with the least possible disruption to agroecosystems. Authoritative On-line References and Resources http://www.ipmcenters.org "The USDA's National Site for the Regional IPM Centers' Information System provides information about US commodities, pests and pest management practices, people and issues." (IWM) programs associated with glyphosate-resistant weeds and in other situations where glyphosate has been intensively used for long periods of time.
An article in AgriNews on 7 February 2006, highlighted rising concerns about the rapid increase of crops resistant to glyphosate and cited Purdue University weed scientist Bill Johnson as saying:
“The development of glyphosate resistance in weeds will be slowed dramatically – and, in turn, may not be important for at least another decade – if producers start instituting resistance-prevention strategies now.”
Resistance-prevention strategies are mentioned in the article including utilizing alternative modes of action on the worst weeds and when rotating crops.
The Resistance Fighter™ code, developed in the United States, for effective management is simple: 212 - no more than two applications of glyphosate on one field over a two -year period.
Paraquat’s unique mode of action makes it an ideal tool in an ongoing resistance-prevention strategy. Paraquat acts in the presence of light to desiccate the green parts of all plants with which it comes into contact. For more information on paraquat’s unique mode of action, view The Science of Paraquat
For more information and tools on managing herbicide resistance visit these sites: