Wild Buckwheat, or Polygonum convolvulus, is more than just an invasive weed. It poses a significant threat to wheat crops by competing for resources.
Its rapid growth and climbing habit allow it to overshadow wheat plants, blocking sunlight and reducing photosynthesis. The weed's extensive root system also competes with wheat for water and soil nutrients. This competition can stunt wheat growth and reduce grain yield.
The weed's seeds are similar in size to wheat grains, making them difficult to separate during harvest. This can reduce grain quality, downgrade the wheat class, and decrease its market value.
How to Identify Wild Buckwheat
Wild buckwheat is an annual vine that can reach heights of up to 1.5 meters. This climbing or trailing plant is known for its heart-shaped leaves with pointed tips and smooth edges. The leaves alternate along the stem and have long petioles. It produces small, greenish-white flower clusters that eventually yield black, shiny, triangular seeds.
Geographic Impact of Wild Buckwheat
Originally from Europe, wild buckwheat has spread worldwide and is now commonly found in North America, particularly in the Midwest and Great Plains regions.
Timing of Wild Buckwheat Emergence
This weed is an early season plant that emerges in the spring and continues to grow throughout the summer.
How to Manage Wild Buckwheat in Wheat
To maintain wheat yield and quality, it's crucial to identify and control wild buckwheat. Familiarity with its distinctive characteristics and the potential damage it can cause is the first step in managing this weed.
Increasing tolerance of some wild buckwheat populations to 2,4-D, MCPA, and glyphosate can make effective control challenging. Below are a few solutions to help manage this weed.
Post-emergence
Burndown
Sharpen® powered by Kixor® herbicide* prior to wheat emergence
Always follow label instructions and guidelines for proper application rates to ensure effective and safe use of these products.
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*Bite is a restricted use pesticide.
*Sharpen® powered by Kixor® herbicide is a restricted use pesticide.
*RESTRICTED USE PESTICIDE Due to acute toxicity. For retail sale to and use by certified applicators only – NOT to be used by uncertified persons working under the supervision of a certified applicator.
