Computer Software Predicts Weed Growth

Computer Software Predicts Weed Growth COMPUTERS Computers 22-1-40 Predicting weed growth for the upcoming crop year - and therefore selecting the right chemicals to use - is now possible with a new computer software program developed by USDA scientists at the North Central Soil Conservation Research Laboratory at Morris, Minn. Called WeedCast, the software uses weather data to predict timing of weed seedling emergence and growth rate after emergence. It also predicts secondary dormancy, which occurs when unfavorable weather conditions cause a certain weed seed to "shut down" until next season. For ex-ample, a single hot, 86 degree day early in spring induces secondary emergence in giant foxtail. "It helps make better decisions," says Frank Forcella, an agronomist who developed the program. "For example, if you know a certain weed is going to æshut down' for a season, you may be able to skip one or more chemical treatments." The software is particularly accurate at predicting secondary dormancy in giant fox-tail, green foxtail, lambsquarters, pigweed, smart weed and wild buckwheat, Forcella says. WeedCast was developed for the Corn Belt, but can be used in any region of the world, he says. The program is free through the Internet. To download, go to the homepage of the USDA-ARS North Central Soil Conservation Research Laboratory at www.mrsars.usda.gov. Click on User Products, select Weed Ecology and Management, click on Readme.txt, then follow WeedCast instructions. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Frank Forcella, USDA-ARS North Central Soil Conservation Research Laboratory, 803 North Iowa Ave., Morris, Minn. 56267 (ph 320 589-3411).

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