Die markbehoefte van Cycloxydim tolerante mielies in die Noordwes streek van Suid-Afrika

Abstract

The increase in world population results in higher demand on food sources. This demand requires more efficient food production by using the already scare resources optimally. Maize is one key source of food for the development- and poorer countries of the world. Increased production could be achieved by reducing the impact of weeds on crops such as maize. Here chemical weed control plays a significant role. Current practice is mainly using a mono-cultural chemical substance namely Glyphosate. However, mono-cultural practices do have the disadvantage of developing resistance in weeds; this endangers the continued use of the specific chemical substance for weed control. Sustainable control could be achieved by altering the chemicals used to control weeds. Cycloxydim is one solution because it has a different active ingredient namely the Acetyl co-enzyme which is an inhibiter which also controls grass while the maize has a natural tolerance against this chemical. This study determines if the North West region has a market demand for Cycloxydim tolerant maize. The study confirmed that this demand exists and also showed that farmers are positive about the product, especially because some already witnessed chemical resistance on their crop fields.