In this series, we discuss common weeds and effective strategies to minimize their impact. Today, the spotlight is on kochia.
What is kochia?
Kochia is an annual weed known for its rapid growth and adaptability. Originating from Eurasia, it has found a thriving habitat in the northern climates of the United States. Kochia reproduces quickly, with each plant capable of producing thousands of seeds that easily scatter in the wind.
Identifying kochia
Identifying kochia among other plants can be challenging, but it has distinct features. Starting as small, green seedlings, they quickly grow into bushy plants with a conical shape, reaching heights of 1 to 6 feet. The narrow, grayish-green leaves are lined with fringed hairs, and stems, initially soft-hairy and yellowish green, turn reddish as they mature by late summer. The discreet greenish flowers form dense spikes from July to September. One of the key identifiers is its ability to spread rapidly, with each plant yielding over 14,000 seeds, ensuring that once you spot kochia, you'll likely see it again—and again.
Challenges and strategies
Kochia has a rich history of developing herbicide resistance, so staying informed about the latest advancements in herbicide technology and adjuvants is crucial. Now more than ever, it's more important for retailers and growers to maintain active engagement with their CHS Agronomy representative. This ensures access to the latest adjuvant technologies tailored to their operational needs and profitability. Growers should also consult with their agronomist to understand how adjuvants can enhance the efficacy of crop protection products applied within their operations.
CHS agronomy develops and offers a full range of special purpose/utility and multifunctional adjuvants, from drift inhibitors and buffers to compatibility agents, deposition aids, and surfactants to enhance herbicide, fungicide, and insecticide technologies on the market.
For more information about adjuvants, download the CHS Agronomy white paper "Using Adjuvants to Improve Crop Protection Performance".
