Revolutionary Weed Control: Albaugh’s Coaxium® Wheat Production System and the Future of Wheat Farming:
In a recent interview with Farm Director KC Sheperd, Chad Shelton of Albaugh discussed the current landscape for wheat producers and the innovative solutions designed to combat rising challenges.
Facing Modern Farming Challenges
The wheat market is currently navigating significant hurdles, primarily driven by high input costs that squeeze profit margins for growers. Shelton acknowledged these difficulties, stating, “The wheat market is one of the most challenging times I think we’ve been faced with because of high input costs and that’s a challenge that the growers have had to be able to make money.”
The Coaxium® Solution
To address these issues, Albaugh has championed the Coaxium® Wheat Production System. This system centers on a herbicide-tolerant trait that empowers growers to manage winter annual grasses effectively. Developed by Colorado growers, the technology uses Aggressor® AX herbicide to target problematic weeds such as feral rye, jointed goatgrass, and various brome species.
Shelton emphasized the importance of strategic application: “Where this works best is where you truly have a challenge with grasses… use the Coaxium wheat production system, reduce the seed bank through controlling of those weeds on an annual basis.” He also advised a rotational approach, suggesting growers “put the technology away and wait for those weeds to come back before you come back and use it again” to ensure long-term efficacy.
Proven Success and Best Practices
The system has seen a positive reception, with an 87% satisfaction rate among users surveyed over six years. To achieve the best results and maximize return on investment, Shelton highlighted several key practices:
- Early Treatment: Controlling weeds early is vital to reduce competition for space, nutrients, and moisture.
- Proper Application Timing: Applying herbicide when weeds are actively growing ensures maximum impact.
- Surfactant and Volume: Using the right surfactant, such as crop oil concentrate for jointed goatgrass, and maintaining adequate spray volume are critical for thorough coverage.
- Stewardship: Growers must sign a stewardship agreement, committing to using certified seed and adhering to best management practices to prevent resistance.
The Next Frontier: Safe-Guard™ Technology
Albaugh is also looking toward the future with the introduction of Safe-Guard™ seed technology. This new development aims to extend the application window for Aggressor® herbicide while enhancing crop safety, ultimately leading to improved weed control and higher yields.
As Shelton noted, the goal is always to help the wheat crop reach its full potential: “By controlling those weeds early… you’re naturally giving that wheat crop a better chance to maximize its potential yield.”
For more information, producers can contact Albaugh representatives, such as Jess Gillem in the Central Plains, or consult their local ag-retail partners and seed distributors.
