Clethodim is a highly effective post-emergence herbicide used to control a wide range of grass weeds in broadleaf crops. Whether you're managing clover, sunflowers, or other crops, understanding how to properly apply clethodim is crucial to ensure maximum weed control without damaging your plants. This comprehensive guide will address everything you need to know about clethodim herbicide rates per acre, its application methods, and how it works to protect your crops.
The recommended rate of clethodim per acre typically ranges from 6 to 16 fluid ounces per acre, depending on the specific weed problem, the type of crop, and the field conditions. A typical rate for general grass weed control is around 8-12 oz per acre. However, it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the product label for the most accurate dosage based on your specific needs.
Clethodim is a selective herbicide, which means it targets grassy weeds while leaving broadleaf plants unharmed. For general application, applying clethodim at 8-10 oz per acre provides effective control of most grass weeds. For denser weed infestations or larger, tougher grasses, you may need to increase the dosage up to 12-16 oz per acre. Be sure to adjust your application rate according to the level of weed pressure and the type of grass you're targeting.
When using clethodim on clover fields, it is essential to use the correct rate to avoid harming the clover itself while targeting the grass weeds. For clover, you should apply 6-8 oz of clethodim per acre. This application rate is enough to control most grass species without damaging the clover. It's important to apply clethodim when the weeds are actively growing for best results and avoid using the herbicide when the clover is stressed due to environmental factors.
In sunflower fields, clethodim is highly effective in controlling grasses that compete with sunflowers for nutrients and space. For sunflowers, the typical rate of 8-10 oz per acre works well. Be sure to apply it during the early growth stages of weeds, as younger weeds are more susceptible to the herbicide. Avoid applying clethodim when sunflowers are stressed due to extreme temperatures or drought conditions, as this may reduce the effectiveness of the herbicide.
To prepare clethodim for application, you need to mix the herbicide with water at the correct ratio. The typical mix ratio is 1/2 to 1 gallon of clethodim per 100 gallons of water, but the exact mix ratio may vary depending on the concentration of the clethodim product you are using. Be sure to consult the product label for the specific mix ratio instructions for the best results. Using the correct ratio ensures that you achieve optimal weed control while preventing excessive chemical application.
One of the most important factors in applying clethodim is the weather conditions, particularly rain. Clethodim is rainfast in approximately 1-2 hours after application. This means that you should avoid applying it when rain is forecasted within this time frame. After the rainfast period, clethodim will be fully absorbed by the weeds, ensuring effective control.
Clethodim starts to work within 2-3 days of application. You may begin to see visible symptoms of weed control, such as yellowing and wilting, within a week. Full control of grass weeds typically occurs within 10-14 days after the initial application. For tougher weeds or dense infestations, a second application may be required for complete control.
When applied to grass weeds, clethodim acts quickly, but the total time to kill the grass can vary depending on the species and environmental conditions. Most grass weeds begin to show signs of damage within 5-7 days, but full kill may take 10-14 days. Grass weeds that are more mature or stressed may require a second treatment to ensure complete control.
For optimal results, clethodim should be sprayed on clover fields when the grass weeds are young and actively growing. The best time to spray clethodim on clover is in early spring or late fall, when the grass weeds are not yet too mature and are actively taking in nutrients. Avoid spraying during hot or dry conditions, as this can cause stress to the clover and reduce the effectiveness of the herbicide.
Clethodim is a reliable herbicide that targets grass weeds without harming broadleaf plants, making it an ideal solution for crops like clover and sunflowers. By applying the correct dosage, timing, and mix ratio, you can effectively control weeds and boost crop yields. Always consult the product label for specific recommendations, and make sure to apply clethodim during favorable conditions for the best results. For the most effective weed control, be sure to follow the guidelines outlined in this article and consider using clethodim as part of your integrated pest management program.