Regardless of the type, thresholds imply that weed effects are population dependent, and as such, allow some type of prediction to be made relative to the consequences of control decisions. One of the keys to successful implementation of this new system of weed control lies in the ability of growers to determine when weed populations exceed economic threshold levels, thus requiring treatment. Threshold concepts are critical in weed science as they help farmers and agronomists determine when weed control measures are necessary
The concept of thresholds is based on the idea that there is a certain level of weed infestation beyond which crop yields are significantly impacted. Adopting economic threshold weed control farming practices typically reduces herbicide costs while maintaining profitability The concept of thresholds has many applications in weed science, depending on the response being measured
Critical period of weed control is a threshold commonly used, which is relative to time from planting date Researchers have identified at what point during the growing season weeds can inflict the most damage on a crop’s potential yield.
