Glyphosate is a crop protection tool that growers count on and is effective for pre-harvest weed management. However, applying it too early can result in unacceptable residues in harvested grain, putting market access at risk. That’s why timing is everything.
Glyphosate may only be applied when grain moisture content is less than 30% in the least mature part of the field, including any areas of regrowth which may produce seed. Applying earlier than that increases the risk of exceeding residue limits and may impact the quality and marketability of the grain.
Growers are reminded that following the product’s label for application rate, timing and pre-harvest interval (PHI) is essential to avoid residue issues. Harvesting earlier than recommended can also increase the risk of unacceptable glyphosate residues in harvested grain, particularly when weather conditions create pressure to harvest ahead of schedule.
For those wondering about tank mixing glyphosate with other products, such as saflufenacil (Heat), both products must still be applied when grain moisture is below 30%, and the most restrictive PHI must be followed to remain compliant with label requirements and residue limits. Resources are available for canola, cereal and pulse growers. To help determine the right time to spray and support practices that keep markets open for everyone, Keep it Clean offers a pre-harvest glyphosate staging guide with visual examples for canola, cereal and pulse growers. Learn more at KeepItClean.ca
