#United States #Westminster #weed control #Palmer Amaranth #Weed Science Society

Introduction

Recent findings from the Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) shed light on a pressing issue in agriculture – weed control. The 2025 broadleaf crop weed survey reveals that despite efforts, many common weeds remain as troublesome as ever, showcasing a dire need for innovative herbicides and alternative management techniques. This article explores the survey's results, the implications for growers, and potential future solutions.

The Survey Overview

Conducted from July to August 2025, the WSSA's annual survey invited responses from its members across the U.S. and Canada. Led by WSSA's Executive Director of Science Policy Lee Van Wychen, the survey garnered feedback from 347 participants in 42 U.S. states and several Canadian provinces. This year marked an increased focus on weeds affecting broadleaf crops, including an expanded list of 13 evaluated crops.

Consistent Challenges

Matthew 'Cole' Woolard, Ph.D., a WSSA Science Policy Fellow, highlighted that the results mirror those from 2022, with minimal changes in the most problematic weed species. The recurring presence of weeds such as Palmer amaranth, common lambsquarters, and kochia suggests that traditional herbicides have struggled to keep pace with evolving weed resistance.

Woolard emphasized, "Producers have relied on the same herbicides over the years, leading to resistance in many key species. This trend necessitates action to diversify our weed control methods."

Common and Troublesome Weeds

The survey indicated that the top 10 most prevalent weeds remain nearly unchanged from previous years. The rankings show that the same species keep cropping up as major challenges:
1. Common lambsquarters
2. Palmer amaranth
3. Kochia
4. Waterhemp
5. Redroot pigweed
6. Nutsedge species
7. Morningglory species
8. Horseweed (marestail)
9. Common ragweed
This consistency indicates a stagnation in finding effective solutions against these resilient weeds, prompting calls from experts like Woolard for renewed research efforts.

Resistance and Research

One pressing concern highlighted by Woolard is the herbicide resistance seen in weeds such as waterhemp and Palmer amaranth. These species have adapted to withstand the chemical treatments traditionally used by farmers, leading to a cycle of dependency on the same herbicides and thus, escalation of the problem.

In light of this resistance, researchers are investigating several innovative technologies to help farmers diversify their approaches. These include:

• - Weed Zappers: Tools designed to eliminate weeds without harming the crops.
• - Harvest Weed-Seed Management: An approach to control weed seeds during post-harvest.
• - Weed Flamers: Devices to eradicate weeds through targeted heat application.
• - Cover Crops: These can suppress weed growth while enriching the soil.

Implementing these technologies could form an integrated weed management strategy that minimizes dependence on herbicides.

The Emerging Issue of Volunteer Crops

Another intriguing finding was the identification of volunteer crops as common and troublesome weeds. While they did not rank amongst the top five most concerning weeds, their presence signals potential challenges ahead. Monitoring and managing these crops can become vital as farming practices evolve.

Moving Forward

The WSSA stresses the significance of continuous surveys in understanding weed populations and management successes or failures. As Woolard comments, "These surveys are essential for tracking shifts in weed populations, offering farmers data-driven insights to adapt their practices effectively."

Conclusion

The 2025 WSSA survey highlights a critical moment for agricultural practices in weed management. As traditional methods face setbacks, there is an urgent call for innovation and adaptation. By fostering research into alternative control strategies and embracing new technologies, the agricultural community can better equip itself to tackle the persistent issue of weeds. For more information, farmers and researchers are encouraged to visit the WSSA's official website and access the survey results.