In this episode of the MSF Farm Talk podcast, Paige Cross converses with Peter Boutsalis from Plant Science Consulting on the intricate challenges of managing weeds during one of the driest years on record in Southern Australia.

The discussion delves into the complexities of herbicide resistance, especially concerning ryegrass and broadleaf weeds, and emphasises the importance of strategic weed management tactics such as residual herbicides, resistance testing, and soil moisture conservation.

Peter provides valuable insights and practical advice on assessing resistance, managing costs, and employing long-term weed control strategies for the upcoming seasons.

00:00 Introduction to Weed Management Challenges

00:34 Meet the Expert: Peter Boutsalis

02:00 Current Weed Challenges in Southern Australia

04:15 Ryegrass and Other Problematic Weeds

06:30 Strategies for Effective Weed Management

07:00 Sampling and Testing for Herbicide Resistance

10:25 Impact of Residual Herbicides and Dry Conditions

12:51 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

14:49 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

This podcast was brought to you by the GRDC project 'Demonstration of summer fallow weed management strategies to reduce input costs in soils of the Wentworth region'. 

For more info on the project visit the MSF project page click here

For more info on Herbicide Resistance Testing visit Plant Science Consulting 

Other useful resources - Kondinin Group Research Report June 2024 Managing Weeds and Pests During Drought