Waterhemp (Photo provided by Karen Corrigan, CCA, MC Agronomics)

Illinois farmers have seen it firsthand: glufosinate isn’t controlling waterhemp like it used to. Now, research funded by the Illinois Soybean Checkoff is taking a deeper look at why and early data points to stacked resistance and possible environmental interactions. 

Dr. Patrick Tranel’s team at the University of Illinois has found that one glufosinate-resistant waterhemp population also resists fomesafen, mesotrione, and atrazine. Preliminary gene expression data shows overlap between resistant populations, suggesting similar resistance mechanisms may be at play. 

The next phase of this project will explore how factors like humidity, light, and temperature influence glufosinate’s performance. Dose-response trials are expected to begin once growth chambers become available. 

For more information, visit the Field Advisor Research Hub.