Goosefoot grass threatens soybean productivity in Mato Grosso

The advance of the goosefoot grass (Eleusine indica) in the soybean fields of Mato Grosso has generated concern among farmers and experts, who face challenges in controlling the herbicide-resistant weed.

The invader, which benefits from the region's favorable climate, compromises productivity and increases management costs, becoming one of the main challenges for local agribusiness.

Difficulties in control

A producer from the eastern region of Mato Grosso reported the impact of goosegrass on his property. According to him, the late application of herbicides allowed the plant to reach a stage that was difficult to control, increasing management costs by up to one and a half bags of soybeans per hectare.

Another producer in the same region faced significant losses, with areas unsuitable for harvesting. The weed seeds, dispersed by the wind and agricultural machinery, increased the presence of the weed in the fields. The use of pre-emergent herbicides and land leveling have been some of the strategies adopted in management.

Resistance and search for solutions

Goosegrass is resistant to herbicides such as glyphosate and graminicides, further complicating its control.

Research has explored new herbicide combinations and management techniques, such as the use of pre-emergent products and crop rotation, to mitigate the plant's impact.

Experts point out that application at the correct time, considering the growth stage of the weed, can be decisive for successful control.

economic impacts

In addition to the direct loss of productivity, the increase in management costs affects producers' profitability. Some farmers have chosen to change strategies, such as replacing soybeans with corn in critical areas, with the aim of applying more effective controls in the following cycle.

For more information about Eleusine indica, click here.