Identification of Palmer Amaranth, Waterhemp and Other Pigweed Species
AGR-256: Identification of Palmer Amaranth, Waterhemp and Other Pigweed Species
Authored by: Travis Legleiter
Abstract
Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) and waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus) are two species of the Amaranthus family that have enveloped the corn and soybean growing landscape of the United State over the past decade. Herbicide resistant Palmer amaranth first began infesting western Kentucky along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers in the early 2000's and has spread along the rivers and into the uplands over the last two decades. The introduction and spread of waterhemp had not been as widespread in Kentucky, although a rapid spread of waterhemp over the last 5 to 10 years has been noted especially in central Kentucky. Both Amaranthus species can be very difficult to control in soybean and corn due to herbicide resistance. The first step in effectively managing or controlling both species is to properly identify them when they first invade your fields. Early management decisions when Palmer amaranth and waterhemp first invade is key to long-term control.
Core Details
Categorical Details
Language
English
Peer Reviewed?
Yes