Weed Control in Pastures and Hayfields: West Virginia University Study
The West Virginia University Weed Wiper Study, led by Dr. Rakesh S. Chandran, evaluated the effectiveness of weed wipers for controlling ironweed and other invasive pasture weeds. The research tested herbicide application methods using both traditional weed wipers and the GrassWorks Pull-Type Weed Wiper, referred to in the study as a rotary weed wiper.
This study provides clear data on herbicide effectiveness, application techniques, and long-term weed suppression, helping farmers, ranchers, and land managers make informed decisions about targeted weed control in pastures and hayfields.
Study Overview
Research Title:
New Wipers for Weed Management in Pasture and Hayfield
Conducted By:
- Dr. Rakesh S. Chandran, Extension Weed Specialist, West Virginia University
- West Virginia University Extension Services
Key Study Objectives:
- Evaluate the effectiveness of weed wipers vs. rotary weed wipers for pasture weed control.
- Compare herbicide treatments applied using a traditional weed wiper and the GrassWorks Pull-Type Weed Wiper.
- Identify optimal herbicide concentrations and application techniques for controlling ironweed and other problem weeds.
Herbicides Tested:
- Grazon P+D
- Redeem R&P
- Remedy
- Roundup WeatherMax
- Forefront R&P
- Crossbow
- Pasturegard
- Surmount
Key Findings on Weed Wiper Effectiveness
Ironweed Control with a Weed Wiper
In Ripley, WV, researchers tested a traditional weed wiper to apply herbicides to ironweed-infested hayfields. Herbicide concentration was set at 25%, and effectiveness was measured one year after treatment (12 MAT).
Herbicide |
Ironweed Count |
Ironweed Control (%) |
| Grazon P+D (Single Pass) | 5.0 | 50% |
| Redeem R&P (Single Pass) | 4.3 | 56.8% |
| Remedy (Single Pass) | 5.0 | 50% |
| Roundup WeatherMax (Single Pass) | 8.0 | 20% |
| Grazon P+D (Double Pass) | 2.7 | 73.8% |
| Redeem R&P (Double Pass) | 3.0 | 70% |
| Remedy (Double Pass) | 3.0 | 70% |
| Roundup WeatherMax (Double Pass) | 7.3 | 26.5% |
| Control (Untreated) | 8.7 | 13% |
Key Takeaways:
Double-pass applications significantly improved weed control, with Grazon P+D achieving 73.8% suppression.
Single-pass applications had lower success rates, showing the importance of thorough application.
Roundup WeatherMax had the lowest control rates, making it less effective for persistent ironweed.
GrassWorks Pull-Type Weed Wiper: Field-Tested in West Virginia
Herbicide |
Ironweed Control (%) |
Clover Population |
| Crossbow | 77% | 5.0 |
| Forefront | 89% | Not measured |
| Grazon P+D | 93% | Not measured |
| Pasturegard | 80% | 4.8 |
| Remedy | 70% | Not measured |
| Surmount | 89% | 8.0 |
| Roundup 5.5 | 71% | 7.8 |
| Control (Untreated) | 0% | 8.0 |
Key Takeaways:
Grazon P+D had the highest weed control (93%), confirming its effectiveness in pasture settings.
The GrassWorks Pull-Type Weed Wiper achieved better weed suppression than traditional wipers, ensuring improved herbicide contact.
Clover populations remained stable, making the Pull-Type Weed Wiper a good option for mixed pastures.
Why the GrassWorks Pull-Type Weed Wiper Works
The GrassWorks Pull-Type Weed Wiper allows for low-drift, selective herbicide application, making it a cost-effective, efficient alternative to boom sprayers.
Precision Application
Herbicide is applied only to taller weeds, preserving forage grasses.
Consistent Coverage
The rotating drum ensures even herbicide distribution.
Lower Chemical Costs
Uses less herbicide compared to broadcast spraying.
Proven Effectiveness
Tested in West Virginia University field studies.
Download the Full West Virginia University Study
The complete West Virginia University Weed Wiper Study includes:
Recent Blog Topics:
Comparisons of weed wiper and pull-type weed wiper effectiveness
Best practices for herbicide application in pastures
Long-term weed control strategies
Why GrassWorks Manufacturing?
GrassWorks Manufacturing has provided precision weed control solutions for over 40 years, offering field-tested equipment trusted by farmers, ranchers, and public agencies.
Made in the USA
Built for durability and long-term use.
Optimized for Pasture & Hayfields
Designed to work without harming desirable grasses.
University-Tested
The Pull-Type Weed Wiper was evaluated in West Virginia University research trials.
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