Weed control in pastures is an often discussed topic around our office. As I have shared before and you know from experience, weeds consume the precious water and expensive nutrients that we need in order to produce enough forage for grazing and hay production. And while mowing pastures might provide you with a little time to reflect on the day and a pretty landscape as a result, mowing is not the most efficient way to rid a pasture of unwanted weeds.
Mowing only removes the top of the weed plant, leaving the roots in tact and still functioning. Some weeds respond to repeated mowing by changing their growth pattern from erect to nearly creeping, allowing them to escape the whirling blades and continue their quest to reproduce.
Spraying weeds with a labeled herbicide is the most economical way of controlling pasture weeds. Some of the herbicides that we rely on to spray pastures fall under the category of ‘Restricted Use’ and require that you either posses a Private Pesticide Applicator’s License in order to purchase them yourself, or that you hire a licensed and insured Commercial Pesticide Applicator to supply the chemical and spray the pasture for you.
The Smith County Extension office will be holding a Private Pesticide Applicator training and testing class on Thursday, June 28, 2007, beginning at 8:30 AM in our meeting room in the Cotton Belt Building.
After attending the class and passing the test you may apply for the license through the TDA which costs $60.00 and is good for 5 years. During the 5 year period you must participate in 15 hours of continuing education classes offered by Texas Cooperative Extension and private companies in order to be able to renew your license.
Cost for the course is $20.00 per person which includes the study guide that should be read before attending the class. Producers are encourage to call (903) 590-2980 by June26 to reserve a space in the class.
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