Spray with DoxstarPro for dock-free aftergrass
Had you a problem with docks in your silage ground this year but didn’t have an opportunity to spray them before the silage was cut?
If you are one of many in this position, the docks are now likely to be even more plentiful in the aftergrass.
You now have an opportunity to control this pernicious weed through spraying with DoxstarPro, leading to a big increase in grass output and animal performance for the rest of the year and beyond.
A translocated herbicide, DoxstarPro contains two powerful chemicals, triclopyr and fluroxypyr, ensuring the most effective kill of the dock root system.
It is proven in research and on countless farms to deliver long term control of docks. And unlike dicamba-based products, it has the advantage of not causing any check to grass growth. DoxstarPro is also highly effective on chickweed and dandelions.
Impact
Docks play havoc with yields. Research has shown that just one dock/20 sq metres results in a loss of 1% in grass or silage dry matter. An infestation of up to 50 docks or more/20 sq. metres is not uncommon, resulting in up to a halving of dry matter output and animal performance.
You have already lost valuable silage dry matter, not to mention the impact on ensilability and quality. This is why it is vital to avoid the double whammy of lost grass output.
Timing
It is vitally importance to ensure the correct timing of the spray in achieved for best long-term control of docks.
For best results, docks should be actively growing, be 15 to 25cm high or across and before a seed head begins to show.
In silage swards cut in the last three to four weeks, docks should now be at the ideal stage for an effective kill. Recently harvested swards should be sprayed after three to four weeks regrowth.
DoxstarPro should be applied at a rate of two litres/ha as a single application or two applications of one litre/ha six to 12 months apart.
Permanent pasture
Docks may now have gone beyond the ideal stage in permanent pasture for an effective spray with DoxstarPro.
In this situation, the best approach is to top the pasture, and wait for three to four weeks regrowth when the docks should have regrown to 15 to 25cm high or across, the perfect stage for long-term control. Keep animal off pasture for seven days after spraying.
