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Start Date
2-27-1997 9:45 AM
Description
The importance of weed control in forage production should not be overlooked, especially when you consider the high investment associated with alfalfa and other legume forages. Weeds may reduce forage yield by competing for water, sunlight and nutrients. For example, yield obtained from the first cutting of alfalfa can be significantly reduced by a heavy infestation of common chickweed. In addition to yield losses, weeds can also lower forage quality, increase the incidence of disease and insect problems, cause premature stand loss, and create harvesting problems. In some cases weeds are unpalatable to livestock or may be poisonous.
Included in
Controlling Weeds in New Seedings and Established Stands
The importance of weed control in forage production should not be overlooked, especially when you consider the high investment associated with alfalfa and other legume forages. Weeds may reduce forage yield by competing for water, sunlight and nutrients. For example, yield obtained from the first cutting of alfalfa can be significantly reduced by a heavy infestation of common chickweed. In addition to yield losses, weeds can also lower forage quality, increase the incidence of disease and insect problems, cause premature stand loss, and create harvesting problems. In some cases weeds are unpalatable to livestock or may be poisonous.