Historically Stinger® herbicide application in Indiana strawberries was limited to post-harvest. A new 24(c) Special Local Needs Label now includes a spring application (Figure 1).
Why does it matter?
A spring application of Stinger® will help to manage certain difficult-to-control broadleaf weeds in the spring. This will reduce reliance on hand-weeding, reduce competition between strawberries and weeds during the fruit development stage of growth, and help to control weeds before they set seed (Figure 2).
Figure 2. Canada thistle and dandelion are abundant in a strawberry field in Central Indiana, spring of 2021. Note that the dandelion has already gone to seed.
Where can I find the new label?
The Office of the Indiana State Chemist created a new web page for special local need pesticide labels. For this and other special local need pesticide labels, visit this website: https://oisc.purdue.edu/pesticide/special_state_registrations.html
What weeds are controlled by Stinger®?
Stinger® is effective on select, broadleaf weeds. It will not control grasses. It is primarily used for composite and legumes weed control. It is a good option for weeds such as thistles, clovers, docks, and dandelions. For established perennial weeds like Canada thistle, multiple applications can provide better control. See the full product label for more information on weeds controlled and suppressed.
What is the use rate?
The spring use rate is 1/3 pint per acre. A second application can be made post-harvest, but the total applied cannot exceed 2/3 pints per acre per year.
What is the pre-harvest interval?
The spring application requires a minimum of 30 days between application and harvest. For early strawberries varieties in Southern Indiana, it may be too late to use Stinger® herbicide this spring. For growers in Northern Indiana or with later varieties, a spring application this year is still possible.