"Round Up Ready" What It Really Means!
At Elk Mound Seed, we’re dedicated to supporting our customers with the tools and knowledge they need for successful farming. With Roundup Ready sweet corn becoming a popular choice for growers, we’ve encountered a common issue that’s leading to unexpected crop damage: confusion about the variety of products labeled as "Roundup."
To help you safeguard your investment and avoid costly mistakes, let’s break down the differences between traditional glyphosate-based herbicides and newer products under the Roundup brand.
What Is Roundup Ready Sweet Corn?
Roundup Ready sweet corn is specifically engineered to tolerate glyphosate, the active ingredient in traditional Roundup herbicide. This technology allows farmers to spray glyphosate-based herbicides directly over their sweet corn fields to eliminate weeds without harming the crop.
However, not all herbicides with the "Roundup" label contain only glyphosate. This distinction is critical.
The Problem: Misleading Product Labels
In recent years, the Roundup brand has expanded its product line to include herbicides with active ingredients beyond glyphosate, such as Triclopyr and Diquat. These ingredients are effective for other weed control applications but are not safe for use on Roundup Ready crops.
The problem arises when growers purchase products labeled as "Roundup" without realizing they’re buying a formulation that isn’t glyphosate-only. Applying these products to Roundup Ready sweet corn can lead to crop damage or complete loss.
Understanding Glyphosate vs. New Roundup Products
Here’s a quick guide to distinguish between glyphosate-based products and other Roundup formulations:
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Glyphosate-Based Roundup (Safe for Roundup Ready Crops):
- Labeled as containing glyphosate only.
- Often described as a “non-selective” herbicide for broad-spectrum weed control.
- Ideal for Roundup Ready sweet corn when used according to label directions.
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Other Roundup Formulations (Not Safe for Roundup Ready Crops):
- Contain additional active ingredients such as Triclopyr, Diquat, or Imazapyr.
- Marketed for specific applications like brush control or rapid weed kill in non-crop areas.
- These products can harm or kill Roundup Ready sweet corn and other glyphosate-tolerant crops.
How to Avoid Crop Damage
To ensure the safety of your Roundup Ready sweet corn, follow these tips:
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Read the Label Carefully: Always check the active ingredients on the product label. Look for formulations that list only glyphosate as the active ingredient.
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Ask Questions: If you’re uncertain about a product, don’t hesitate to ask your retailer or contact Elk Mound Seed for guidance.
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Avoid Box Store Shortcuts: Many box stores carry a variety of Roundup products designed for home use, often with added active ingredients. These may not be suitable for agricultural applications.
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Stick to Trusted Sources: When in doubt, purchase herbicides from reputable agricultural suppliers who can recommend the right product for your needs.
Why This Matters
The introduction of new Roundup products has caused confusion, as many customers still associate the Roundup name exclusively with glyphosate. While these new formulations serve their purpose in specific contexts, they can spell disaster for Roundup Ready sweet corn if misapplied.
We understand how frustrating it can be to lose a crop to an honest mistake. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect your investment and enjoy the full benefits of Roundup Ready technology.
Elk Mound Seed: Your Partner in Success
At Elk Mound Seed, we’re more than just a seed supplier—we’re your partner in achieving thriving, productive crops. If you have any questions about Roundup Ready sweet corn or the herbicides safe for use, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to learn more, and let’s work together to ensure your fields are set up for success this season.