In the dynamic world of horticulture, where tree crops like almonds, walnuts, apples, pears, and citrus play a pivotal role in the local economy, improved farm management practices become more important with each passing year.
As the seasons start to change and the weather warms up, the focus for growers shifts significantly towards effective weed management programs.
Weeds can be more than mere nuisances; they have the potential to undermine crop health, reduce yields, and, most significantly, dent profitability, says Luke Testoni, the national horticulture manager at Kenso Agcare.
In the bustling orchards where every minute counts, he says the adage “timing is everything” couldn't hold truer and believes “early intervention is the secret weapon”.
“While traveling around, you witness the challenges that farmers face daily. The need to stay proactive in weed management is a constant topic of conversation, and I must give credit to the growers for their exceptional dedication.”
Mr Testoni said navigating the sea of available herbicides can be overwhelming, but making the right choice is paramount. His advice of timing is everything echoes through the orchards with the rider “precision is key”.
“Kenso Agcare offers an array of high-quality herbicides tailored to your specific needs. When it comes to selective action against broadleaf weeds, Kentrole (amitrole) is the go-to choice. For swift and targeted action without harming your valuable trees, Fiestar (glufosinate) stands out.”
In most scenarios, Mr Testoni said controlling weeds around the drip zone of the trees takes centre stage, and farmers often seek a solution with residual activity, such as Spektrum (Flumioxazin), to fulfill this task. Kenso recently received label extension approval, now encompassing key horticulture crops.
In most applications, he said it pairs exceptionally well with a knockdown herbicide that effectively tackles smaller, pesky weeds, allowing Spektrum to “work its magic” in the soil.
Additional Group 14 (previously Group G) options often used in similar applications include OX 240 (oxyfluorfen) and Squatter (carfentrazone), both of which offer exceptional residual control.
Mr Testoni said Kenso is continuing to develop weed control options for tree crops with some exciting new formulations to come soon.
“Paraquat and glyphosate continue to play a vital role in orchard weed management across the country, serving as mainstays in almost every farm shed, and Kenso is equipped to cater to these needs as well.
“One of the latest additions to the Kenso portfolio is Max-Out Duo 600. “It's not merely about introducing another glyphosate product to the market. It's about the precision of the formulation.
“With the high-load combination of potassium and monoethanolamine salts, along with a fully loaded surfactant package, it effectively combats both grasses and broadleaf weeds,” Mr Testoni said.
“Formulated in our state-of-the-art manufacturing ISO-accredited facilities, it stands as a testament to our ongoing commitment to excellence, reflecting our drive for quality and innovation.
“As the season progresses and harvest approaches, precision becomes paramount. Paraken 334 steps in as a rapid-action contact herbicide. “Paraken 334, equipped with its built-in surfactant package, holds the solution. Its high load paraquat formulation guarantees efficient weed control, simplifying harvest preparation.
“For tree crop growers, weed management isn't just a task; it represents a pivotal strategy that defines success, with an underlying artistry. From the timing-driven effectiveness of Spektrum to the precision embodied in Max-Out Duo 600's formulation, Kenso Agcare’s solutions align seamlessly with the realities of orchard life.
“As you nurture your almonds, walnuts, apples, pears and citrus, remember that the right herbicide, applied with precision, can unlock the full potential of your tree crops.”
Mr Testoni said Kenso consistently seeks ways to improve.
“Our relevance in crop protection in Australia is continuously expanding, and we consistently explore new avenues to augment our already comprehensive product range.
“I genuinely anticipate the future, as we have some exciting products on the horizon and an exceptional team ready to contribute further value to this remarkable industry.”
