Keep it Clean: Pre-harvest herbicide Tips and Tools

Did you know that applying pre-harvest glyphosate too early can hurt the marketability of your grains? When pre-harvest glyphosate is applied before the grain moisture reaches 30%, glyphosate can move into the grain and be locked in, causing unacceptable levels of glyphosate residue.

The thumbnail test is an easy way to test if the cereal grain has reached 30% moisture or below. Press the kernel with your thumbnail. At less than 30% grain moisture, the kernel is firm and reasonable pressure from your thumbnail leaves a dent that holds. Do this for both the main stem and tillers. If the latest tillers have reached 30% or less moisture, the field is ready for pre-harvest glyphosate application.

Do keep in mind that certain crops like malt barley may not be accepted if treated with pre-harvest glyphosate – check with your grain buyer before applying. Strictly follow the product label guidelines to minimize scrutiny in the global marketplace.

Refer to Pre-Harvest Glyphosate Staging Guide for more information.

Check out Keep it Clean Pre-harvest Tips and Tools webinar, where proper staging for pre-harvest glyphosate application, the importance of following pre-harvest intervals for crop protection products and scouting for disease are covered.