Successful cultivation of maize depends largely on the efficacy of weed control. Weed control during the first six to eight weeks after planting is crucial because weeds compete vigorously with the crop for nutrients and water during this period. In fact, the crop must be weed free for the first 8-10 weeks of the crop cycle. Annual yield losses occur because of weed infestations in cultivated croplands. The annual yield loss in maize because of weed problems can even reach 50% or more. The loss occurs as a result of weed competition for nutrients, water and light.

NB: If you fail to control weeds in maize for the first 5 weeks of the crop cycle, then 50% of the yields will be lost. Never allow weeds to seed, it will enhance the weed seed bank and result in future weed control costs and difficulties.

There are more than 20 herbicides registered on maize in Zimbabwe, most of which can be sprayed on top of the maize crop.