March 09, 2010

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Turfgrass professionals know that prevention is the key to effective and economical weed control. Weeds are best controlled with preemergent herbicide applications in early spring, prior to weed seed germination. To further broaden the weed control spectrum of your spring application, consider tank mixing preemergent herbicides, such as Tower® herbicide and Pendulum® AquaCap™ herbicide. 

As a stand-alone, Tower herbicide with active ingredient dimethenamid-p (DMTA-P) controls more weed species than other preemergent herbicides. When tank mixed with Pendulum AquaCap herbicide, turfgrass professionals experience an even broader spectrum of control with greater efficacy.

For general broad-spectrum control of grassy and broadleaf weeds and sedges, use the following herbicide rates:

• Tower herbicide at 21-32 fl. oz./A plus Pendulum AquaCap herbicide at 3.1 – 4.2 pts./A. The tank mix allows reapplication at five- to eight-week intervals through the season (rate-specific).

For goosegrass control, consider the three following options:

• Option 1:  Pendulum AquaCap herbicide at 3.1 to 4.2 pts./A applied in early spring followed by Tower herbicide at 32 oz./A in late spring.
• Option 2:  Tower herbicide at 32 fl. oz./A followed by Tower herbicide at 32. fl. oz./A early and late spring as a five- to eight-week sequential.
• Option 3:  Three applications of Tower herbicide at 21 fl. oz. starting in the early spring every five to eight weeks through early summer.

For doveweed control, consider the two following options:

• Option 1:  Tower herbicide at 32 fl. oz./A followed by Tower herbicide at 32 fl. oz./A early and late spring as a five- to eight-week sequential.
• Option 2:  Three applications of Tower herbicide at 21 fl. oz. timed prior to germination in the spring and repeated every five to eight weeks through the summer.

Tank Mixing Tips

When tank mixing with Pendulum AquaCap herbicide, first add it to the partially filled spray tank while agitating, then add Tower herbicide. Fill the remainder of the spray tank with water while agitating.

Remember the W.A.L.E. order of addition when tank mixing:

W – Add wettable powders and water dispersible granules first.

A – Adjuvants, second.

L – Liquid formulation (flowables and water solubles) third.

E – Add emulsifiable concentrates last.

Remind your team to follow these and other proper mixing directions. Always read and follow chemical label instructions. When in doubt, contact your manufacturer or distributor.

If you’d like to learn more about BASF Professional Turf & Ornamentals products, contact your BASF Professional Turf & Ornamentals sales specialist, Tweet us @BASFTurf_us or send an e-mail.