Thistle and dock control is one of the major challenges in organic arable farming. Depending on the intensity of spread of these two weeds, different measures are required, ranging from prevention to the overall redesign of cropping systems. However, observations of certain cultivation systems and requests for practical support point to deficits in the control of these weeds, particularly where weed pressure is high.
The aim is therefore to raise awareness of the risks associated with these weeds using practical diagnostic tools. Furthermore, existing knowledge will be expanded by providing available tried-and-tested control strategies and control measures accessible for different contexts.
To achieve these goals, the project brings together a network of practitioners who are involved in the development of the relevant tools, their practical testing and optimisation, and their dissemination among their colleagues. On-farm trials will also be conducted as part of the project to increase knowledge about the spread and survival mechanisms of the two weeds.
The control strategies and additional technical resources will be disseminated in a document to complement the technical data sheets to be drawn up.
