WEEDSEEKER TECHNOLOGY CAN BE USED EFFECTIVELY IN WIDE-ROW CROPS IN DRYLAND BROADACRE FARMING SYSTEMS

The adaptability and suitability of WeedSeeker technology for use in row crops in dryland broadacre farming systems has been determined from four field trials conducted in central Queensland in 2009-10. Inter-row post-emergence weed control efficacy and crop safety (tolerance) of glyphosate and or paraquat applied via tractor mounted shielded spray equipment fitted with detachable WeedSeeker units were measured in both chickpea and sorghum crops grown on 1 m rows. Good weed control with minimal lasting crop damage (for either crop or herbicide) supports the in-crop use of WeedSeeker technology particularly where it is used in conjunction with banded on-the-row residual pre-emergence herbicides. Economic benefits to farmers and safety to the environment can be maximised through the reduced physical amount of herbicide being applied particularly where this technology is employed in-crop as well as in the fallow where it is currently and mostly utilised. In-crop, WeedSeeker use will also facilitate the cost-effective application of the more expensive herbicide products that may be required for managing herbicide resistant weeds.