The Scoop Podcast: Zombie Weeds And Using All the Tools In The Toolbox
Tyler Steinkamp, crop protection product manager at Winfield United, works with farmers and retailers across Iowa and Missouri. He shares why last year made agronomists recite the common real estate mantra: location, location, location.
“The magic term in agronomy is always “it depends,” he says. “That was definitely the case in 2023. Usually within the states of Iowa and Missouri we have one weather pattern that kind of dominates the whole state. In 2023, it was all about the location. And so when I got a call, I'd have to figure out where they farmer was at because sometimes it was really hot and dry in their part of the state, and there were other areas that actually had a fair amount of rain.”
Steinkamp says the weather variability emphasizes the need to be able to adapt to changing conditions. Part of his role is to help inform growers of new technologies and best practices. With dry conditions persisting into 2024, growers should be prepared to face a challenging weed control environment.
“When you have really hot and dry conditions, it makes it very challenging to get weed control. So we've had some escapes. The number one thing as I'm talking with people is how are we going to get consistent weed control into 2024,” Steinkamp says.
He says killing weeds is a favorite part of his job while encouraging farmers to make every application count to give the best level of weed control.
In addition to selecting the correct herbicide, key steps include:
- Correct timing
- Using the right adjuvant
“I've had a couple of waterhemp surprise me but usually I know whether a waterhemp plants is going to die or not,” he says. “However, there's been a couple that come back from the dead and I call those zombie weeds but that that is one thing that that kind of goes outside of that line.”
When asked if he has a magic wand to solve one problem, Steinkamp says it’s to slow down resistance so it can be better managed.
Hear more from Steinkamp on The Scoop Podcast.
Steinkamp was named to The Scoop's 40 Under 40, sponsored by Nufarm. You can see the full list of awardees here.
