AS fast as croppers across northwest Victoria have been getting headers off paddocks in the past week, they have been bringing out the spray rigs to try and clean up paddocks.
With spectacular unseasonal rainfalls through October and November – in some places as far afield as Mildura and Kerang as much as a year’s annual rainfall hit some spots in just weeks – the risk of a serious green bridge is on the radar.
And to minimise looming chemical costs now is the ideal time to understand your spray water quality to get the best performance from your herbicide during summer knockdown.
To support farmers, many of them disappointed with harvest after it showed so much potential early in the season, chemical manufacturer VICCHEM is now offering free water testing and water analysis reports for clear insights into spray water quality.
VICCHEM chief executive Bill Dowdle told North West Farmer testing allows farmers to tailor spray mixes for improved herbicide performance – especially valuable for enhancing summer knockdown in preparation for spring sowing.
Mr Dowdle said for the best results in summer knockdown, he also recommended incorporating OUTRIGHT 770 Spray Adjuvant into herbicide mixes.
“This innovative solution offers a triple-action advantage by combining ammonium sulphate, penetrating oil, and non-ionic surfactants in one convenient pack,” Mr Dowdle said.
“Designed to tackle hard water challenges, OUTRIGHT 770 ensures optimal herbicide performance with ease.
“We understand how critical water quality is for effective herbicide application and water testing and analysis provides farmers and their agronomists with the insights they need to boost productivity and achieve better commercial outcomes.”
Recent greenhouse pot trials conducted by Plant Science Consulting (see tables) showed that at rates of 0.5 per cent to 1 per cent, OUTRIGHT 770 outperformed ammonium sulphate (AMS) and acidifying adjuvants such as VC-700, delivering significantly better control of annual ryegrass by glyphosate.
You can order a free test through your local rural retailer, agronomist or at OUTRIGHT770.com.au/water_testing.
