When to spray

[Randy S.E.-MN]

I have a 5 acre field that has grass and clover on it, but it is heavily infested with wild parsnips, goldenrod, and milkweed. I was about to cut it with my sickle mower. A good friend just offered up his Walsh sprayer to go over the field with. Is it best to spray while all is still standing, or is it best to spray after I cut it. Any good suggestions on a recommended herbicide for these particular weeds? Thanks in advance...Randy

 

[Anonymous-0]

If you cut first you will need to let the weeds start growing again. Might be a good idea as young weeds are easier to kill than mature ones and probably more of them will start to grow with the grass out of the way. There is a derivative of 2,4-D that will kill the milkweed and goldenrod without killing your clover. Don't remember the name of it. Prabably any farm supply that is in the business of selling herbicides can tell you what it is. I 'm not familar with wild parnsips so I can say what would kill them.

 

[paul]

(Most) mature weeds don't absorb much spray - they are busy working on seeds. You need a real lot of spray, or it won't affect them so much. Certain weeds & certain sprays are an exeption.

If you cut it, there isn't much weed left to catch the spray right away.

So, like mentioned, cut the weeds, let them grow back. When they are young & tender but a couple inches high - time to blast them.

--->Paul

 

[Randy S.E.-MN]

Thanks guys...info much appreciated. I'll see how long I have access to the sprayer, and make a judgement call...Randy

 

[Anonymous-0]

The spray is called Butyrac (2,4D-B) I use it at work. Its wont kill the clover but takes a high rate to kill the weeds.