Managing Weeds in Pearl Millet With Limited Herbicides

By Scout Nelson

Drought conditions and delayed irrigation water deliveries have led many Nebraska Panhandle growers to consider July-planted pearl millet for forage or hay production. However, weed management can be difficult because only a limited number of herbicides are available for use in this crop.

Herbicide choices are restricted throughout the growing season. Growers can use selected burndown products before planting, while mesotrione remains one of the few options for residual weed control and 2,4-D is a primary postemergence treatment.

Late-emerging weeds are often the biggest challenge in pearl millet. Common problem species include Palmer amaranth, pigweed, bindweed, and several nightshade species, making early weed control especially important.

Mesotrione can help manage pigweed and nightshade populations, but growers should consider future crop plans before using it. Rotational restrictions may limit planting options for crops such as sugarbeet, dry beans, and alfalfa.

For fields that will be planted to corn the following year, a clean seedbed followed by a preemergence herbicide program can improve weed suppression. Additional postemergence treatments may be needed while weeds are still small.

When another crop is planned for the next season, early weed management and timely herbicide applications are critical. Palmer amaranth can quickly become difficult to control once it grows beyond the early stages.

Growers should also test forage for nitrate levels if Palmer amaranth is present before feeding or selling it. Careful planning, timely weed control, and consideration of crop rotations remain key to successful pearl millet production.

FAQ:

1. Why are growers planting pearl millet?

Pearl millet is being used as a forage and hay option on prevent-plant acres.

2. What is the biggest weed concern in pearl millet?

Late-emerging weeds such as Palmer amaranth are the main challenge.

3. Is weed control important early in the season?

Yes, early weed control helps prevent weeds from becoming difficult to manage.

4. Why should growers consider crop rotation plans?

Some herbicides can restrict which crops may be planted later.

5. When should postemergence herbicides be applied?

They should be applied while weeds are still small.

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