Technical update Issue No.9 June 2015

CONTROL OF SOFT RUSH At this time of year many livestock farmers are considering how to controlSoft rush. Soft rush thrives in poorly drained soils and acid conditions. It is adifficult weed to control but with the right timing and some culturalmeasures good levels of control can be achieved with MCPA containingproducts such as Agritox, Easel or Lupo.

BEST TIMING

In the spring when 15–25 cm tall and actively growing. Avoid periods of frost and apply when daytime temperature isabove 100°C. Avoid spraying on a day when rainfall is predicted.

CULTURAL + CHEMICAL CONTROL

Topping Soft rush in late spring prior to seed formation weakens the plant, which then has to re-grow. If the re-growthis treated when the Soft rush is about 15 cm tall better control will be achieved. Good field drainage and managementof acidity will also help eradicate this weed. Improved control can be achieved with Lupo, which contains 2,4-D andMCPA and will give better control than straight MCPA. Always use the maximum permissible dose of the product.Topping can be at odds with agri-environment scheme options due to nesting birds. Check before topping.

Nufarm UK LtdWyke Lane, Wyke, Bradford,West Yorkshire BD12 9EJ

WEED WIPING WITH GLYPHOSATE

Nufarm glyphosate products, Clinic and the AST brands, all carry a weed wiping recommendation. They can be usedeffectively on actively growing Soft rush providing the canopy is well above the surrounding grass. Note no MCPAcontaining product has a weed wiping recommendation.

STEWARDSHIP

Rushes tend to grow in boggy areas and areas of high rainfall. Never spray when the soil is waterlogged or where thereis any flowing water in the area to be treated. Never spray near a watercourse and obey any buffer zone restrictions.Topping allows for a later use of product when the ground is usually drier and this further prevents pollution of surfacewaters. MCPA products cannot be applied by knapsack sprayer.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Details of application timings, rates and timings are given in Nufarm labels and product literature; both of which can be accessed from our web site at www.nufarm.com/uk.Alternatively ring the Nufarm helpline on 01274 694714, Monday–Friday 9.00–17.00.

Use plant protection products safely. Always read the label and product information before use. For label and safety information refer to the Nufarm website at www.nufarm.com/uk.

Lupo contains MCPA and 2,4-D. Easel and Agritox contains MCPA.

Clinic, Easel, Agritox, AST and Lupo are Nufarm trademarks.