FirstStep herbicide registered for use in South Dakota

Thanks to a recent state registration acceptance by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, South Dakota growers can now utilize FirstStep herbicide (florasulam+glyphosate) to get their spring wheat, barley or oat crops off to a clean start.

"Strong grain prices are casting a spotlight on the importance of maximizing yields,” says Joe Yenish, field scientist with Dow AgroSciences. “If a late spring has put seeding behind schedule or there are straggler fields that need attention, FirstStep is a great time-saving option.”

FirstStep combines preseed control of emerged broadleaf weeds and grasses with SoilActive™ technology for up to two weeks of lasting control of many winter- and spring-germinating weeds, including wild buckwheat, tansymustard, volunteer canola and chickweed. This extended control helps the crop get established without competition, maintaining soil moisture levels and nutrients. When weeds do emerge, it’s at the same time as the crop, optimizing in-crop control with an appropriate herbicide.

"Dow AgroSciences offers a complete product portfolio — from preseed to harvest — to help growers maximize yields,” says Jim Parker, product marketing leader for the U.S. Cereals business at Dow AgroSciences. “FirstStep gives wheat and barley the best possible start, and then growers can turn to GoldSky® herbicide for effective in-crop control.”