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Waterhemp Biology and Management
Common waterhemp (Amaranthus rudis) presents significant management challenges for corn and soybean producers. Since 1996, weed scientists at the University of Illinois have conducted experiments to determine optimal waterhemp management options in corn and soybean production systems. Results have indicated that several soil-applied and postemergence herbicides can provide effective waterhemp control, but because of the extended germination and emergence characteristics of waterhemp, sequential management programs are generally more consistent.
Research is also underway to examine the shade tolerance and emergence characteristics of common waterhemp in both conventional and no-tillage production systems. Preliminary results suggest common waterhemp is relatively shade tolerant, which may allow the weed to survive under the crop canopy.
Molecular Techniques to Understand Weed Resistance to Herbicides
Weed biotypes resistant to various herbicide classes continue to post management challenges for Illinois producers. Weed scientists at the University of Illinois have begun to utilize molecular biology techniques to understand weed resistance at the most basic level. Results have shown that resistance to ALS-inhibiting herbicides may be transferred between certain Amaranthus species, potentially escalating the problem.