Irrigating to Activate: Managing Herbicides in Dry Conditions

Planting is nearly wrapped up here in southeast Nebraska — most folks are 90 to 95 percent done. While the dry weather helped get crops in the ground on time, it also means we’ve jumped straight into irrigation season.

What We’re Flying

We’re not in heavy spray mode this week, but we’re watching closely as early herbicide applications go down. Some growers may still be flying on pre-emerge chemicals, but most of the action has shifted to activating what’s already been applied.

What We’re Seeing in the Field

Pivots are moving across the countryside — not just to water dry seedbeds, but to incorporate herbicides. Many of the “fifteens” need around an inch of moisture to activate properly. If we’re not catching that from rain, irrigation is our best option.

What to Watch for Herbicide Activation

I usually recommend two quicker half-inch passes with the pivot rather than one slow 1" circle. Not only does it activate the product more effectively, it also helps keep pivot tracks from getting too deep. A lot of these herbicides break down under sunlight, so if you’ve applied, it’s important to get them incorporated quickly.

In Wrap...

No real rain in the forecast, so keep an eye on those herbicide activations. Let me know if you want to talk through timing or pivot strategies.

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