"Weed management remains one of the most persistent challenges in outdoor floriculture crop production, especially for garden mums and other fall ornamentals grown in containerized systems. Over the past decade, I have observed that significant weed pressure is frequently present both around and within gravel or weed barrier-covered container pads," says Garrett Owen of Ohio State University. "While some operations are highly proactive and maintain weed-free conditions from the beginning to the end of the crop cycle, others struggle with persistent weed problems. Weeds are frequently observed growing out of the drainage holes of containers and from the exposed substrate surface before the plant canopy has fully covered the container surface. These weeds compete with crops for water, nutrients, and light, reducing plant quality and marketability. As the crop grows and the canopy fills in, some weed pressure is reduced, but early-season weed competition can have lasting impacts on plant vigor and uniformity. Given these challenges, many growers turn to herbicides as a primary tool for weed control, but this approach is not without its own set of risks and management considerations."

"Many growers default to herbicides for weed control; while these can be effective, I have observed localized herbicide injury in outdoor fall garden mums, with symptoms including distorted, cupping, and upward curling leaves, stunted plant growth, leaf and meristem chlorosis, and death (necrotic) of apical meristems. These symptoms are often the result of herbicide drift, volatilization, or accidental overspray, and highlight the need for careful herbicide application and proactive weed management. The challenges posed by both weed competition and herbicide injury reinforce the importance of a comprehensive, integrated approach to weed management. This article provides general guidance and strategies for implementing the best management practices that protect both outdoor-grown floriculture crops and sensitive plants in the surrounding production area, support crop quality, reduce labor costs, and help prevent the spread of weed seeds, contributing to overall improved production efficiency and crop uniformity."
 

Source: www.floraldaily.com