2026 Weed Control Strategy

With spring rapidly approaching, many farmers are looking for ways to cut expenses heading into the 2026 growing season. Two common questions come up every year: “Do I really need to spend money on a pre-emerge chemical?” and “Should I add a residual to my post application?” The honest answer, if you want consistent, long-term weed control, is yes to both.

Across our trade territory, we are already dealing with weed populations that are tolerant or resistant to multiple post-applied chemistries. In many areas, waterhemp has been narrowed down to a single effective post-emerge option, and that option is not the same everywhere. While tillage can control many emerged weeds before planting, no-till remains the system of choice for many growers, which means weed control relies heavily on chemistry.

With no new herbicide chemistries expected this spring or in the next several years, it is more important than ever to use as many effective modes of action as practical. Top-performing pre-emerge programs provide multiple modes of action to control weeds early and reduce pressure later in the season. A timely post-emerge application then takes care of any escapes, and adding residual at post extends control and adds yet another layer of defense against resistant and tolerant weeds.

Yes, you might get by without a diverse chemical program for a while, but eventually it will catch up. Cutting corners today builds larger populations of resistant weeds tomorrow, and the end result is a full-blown weed train wreck.

Talk with your local SFG agronomist about building a solid two-pass herbicide program that protects yield potential and adds value to your acres in 2026.