When it comes to soybean production, setting up the crop for success starts before crop emergence.
Weed control is one of the most crucial factors affecting yield potential, and pre-emergent herbicide programs play a pivotal role in maintaining a weed-free environment during the critical early growth stages.
In Ontario, growers using GM/GMO soybean cropping systems—including Enlist, Xtend, and Roundup Ready soybeans—can benefit from Bifecta EZ herbicide, a powerful pre-emergent residual solution that targets most major weeds found in the region.
Skipping or cutting corners on early weed control can lead to yield loss, increased weed competition, and more reliance on in-crop herbicide applications, which may not be as effective against aggressive weed populations. Investing in a comprehensive pre-emergent herbicide strategy ensures soybeans get off to the strongest possible start, reducing stress on the crop and protecting yield potential throughout the season.
The Importance of Pre-Emergent Weed Control
Soybeans are particularly susceptible to early-season weed competition, with research showing that most yield loss occurs when weeds are present between V1 and V3, the critical weed-free period. During this stage, young soybean plants establish their root systems, develop their first trifoliate leaves, and compete for sunlight, nutrients and moisture. Established and emerging weeds at this stage can quickly reduce soybean growth and limit yield potential before post-emergent herbicides even have a chance to be applied.
Using a strong pre-emergent herbicide like Bifecta EZ helps reduce in-season weed populations, preventing competition before it begins and reducing pressure on in-crop herbicide passes. By keeping fields cleaner longer, growers can maintain higher yield potential while also improving the effectiveness of their overall crop protection solutions.
Bifecta Herbicide: A Smart Choice for Ontario Growers
Bifecta EZ is a great option for Ontario soybean growers using GM/GMO cropping systems such as Enlist, Xtend, and Roundup Ready soybeans. Its powerful pre-emergent residual activity ensures that fields remain weed-free during the early critical growth stages, setting the foundation for higher yields and cleaner fields throughout the season. A strong residual program can also help increase the longevity of trait systems by reducing weed populations and size at in-crop timing.
Key Benefits of Bifecta Herbicide
Broad-Spectrum Weed Control
Bifecta EZ provides strong activity on most major weeds found in Ontario, including Canada fleabane, common ragweed, lamb’s-quarters, pigweeds, foxtails and nightshades.
Residual Control for Extended Protection
Bifecta EZ works best as a pre-emergent herbicide that prevents weeds from establishing. It provides up to five weeks of weed control after activation helping soybeans stay cleaner throughout the season.
Reduced Reliance on In-Crop Applications
By eliminating weeds early, Bifecta EZ lowers the burden on post-emergent herbicide applications. Keeping weeds smaller and more susceptible at in-crop herbicide timing promotes more effective control resulting in less escapes and potentially less herbicide tolerant biotypes. This helps preserve effective herbicide options for future seasons.
Improved Yield Potential
Keeping soybeans weed-free during the critical V1-V3 growth stages is one of the most effective ways to protect yield. A strong pre-emergent herbicide program ensures that soybeans can take full advantage of available resources without competition.
Excellent Fit for GM/GMO Systems
Bifecta EZ is a perfect fit for Enlist, Xtend, and Roundup Ready soybeans, giving growers flexibility and confidence in their weed control programs. Regardless of which system is being used, Bifecta EZ provides a strong foundation for season-long weed management.
Best Practices for Applying Bifecta Herbicide
To maximize the effectiveness of Bifecta EZ, growers should follow best practices when incorporating it into their weed control programs.
- Apply Before Weeds Emerge – Bifecta EZ works best when applied to the soil before weed emergence. It should be sprayed after a burndown or before any significant weed growth has occurred. Remember, to maximize efficacy it needs to reach the soil.
- Ensure Proper Soil Conditions – Do not till after applying Bifecta EZ. The soil should have minimal disturbance after application.
- Use the Right Rate and Tank Mix Partners – Applying the correct rate is crucial to achieving consistent, long-lasting control. Additionally, Bifecta EZ can be tank-mixed with glyphosate and/or BlackHawk to sharpen and broaden weed control.
The Long-Term Benefits of Investing in a Strong Setup Acre
Choosing the right pre-emergent herbicide is not just about immediate weed control—it’s also about long-term sustainability and productivity. Fields that receive strong early-season weed management experience:
- Lower weed seed bank populations, making future weed control easier.
- Reduced in-season weed pressure, improving the efficiency of post-emergent applications.
- Better crop competition and stronger soybean stands, leading to improved yields.
- Less reliance on post-emergent sprays, reducing herbicide resistance risks and input costs.
The setup acre is one of the most critical components of a successful soybean production system. By prioritizing strong pre-emergent weed control, growers can eliminate early-season competition, reduce in-crop pressures and maintain higher yield potential.
Bifecta EZ herbicide is a high-performing, reliable option that fits well within Ontario’s GM/GMO soybean cropping systems, providing residual control against key weeds and ensuring that soybeans stay weed-free during the most critical early growth stages.
Rather than skimping on early weed management, investing in a comprehensive pre-emergent herbicide strategy will pay dividends at harvest time.
