Beet Solutions - Bayer Crop Science New Zealand

Managing Weeds

Importance of Weed Control in Beets

Beet crops are slow growing and are susceptible to weed competition. This is especially the case during the first eight weeks where faster growing weeds can outcompete and choke the developing beet crop. Poor weed control can severely reduce yields.

Fast growing weeds that emerge early and grow taller (eg; fathen, willow weed etc) than the crop cause the most severe yield penalties. Trials in sugar beet in the United Kingdom have shown that just one tall weed per square metre can reduce yield by 10%. Allowing mature weeds to set seed is also less than ideal. For example, a mature fathen can produce 700,000 seeds which add to the seed bank in the soil, creating issues for subsequent crops.

Controlling weeds through the crop establishment phase is critical. After 8 -10 weeks the fodder beet crop should have covered in, reducing further weed germination and competition.

Weed Identification

Knowing what weeds you need to control in your beet crop is critical for herbicide choice. Ideally herbicides should also be applied on seedling weeds (ideally at the cotyledon to 2-4 leaf stage). Identifying seedling weeds can be challenging.

Click through to get more information on common weeds in beet crops.

Click through for details of how to apply weed control products including rates and timings. There are detailed spray programmes as well as trials.

Step 1, 2, 3, 4 - Fodder beet solutions

Introduction to beet

The increase in the fodder beet area has been driven by its effectiveness as an overwintering option, especially for dairy farmers. Fodder beet produces high yielding crops that provide a highly palatable, energy rich food source for stock.

Getting the best out of your beet crop

With the appropriate management, farmers can be rewarded with a high yielding fodder beet crop. To achieve this careful planning, with the timely execution of crop management strategy throughout the season is required. It all starts with planning.

Disease control & maximising yields

As the planted area of fodder beet increases across the country, so too does the threat of disease. When disease is present, it can affect the plant’s ability to retain its leaves.