The ADAS weeds team can advise on all aspects of weed management for arable, horticultural, grassland, and amenity areas.
As experts in applied weed research, we are able to conduct a range of field, outside container, and glasshouse trials. We can also carry out desk-based research including literature reviews and economic assessments.
Weed resistance to herbicide treatments is a growing problem. Adopting an integrated pest management approach is vital to slow down the development of resistance. As such, we are able to advise on management and prevention techniques using non-chemical and organic weed control. This includes innovative weed management methods including electric weeders and precision mechanical weeding.
Our scientists are members of the Weed Resistance Action Group, an independent panel of experts dedicated to knowledge exchange in herbicide resistance research.
Our team of experts work with clients from industry, funding bodies, and government organisations.
We are able to carry out field, outdoor container, polytunnel or glasshouse contract trials. These include trials to test pesticide and biopesticide efficacy.
Our field trial services include:
Each trial we design is considerate of research aims. Glasshouse trials allow for the collection of precise data in tightly controlled conditions. Container trials enable the collection of data under outdoor conditions whilst still allowing some control. Field trials enable the collection of data in a field setting to allow comparison between different treatments.
All our weed field trials are conducted to Official Recognition of Efficacy Testing Organisations (ORETO) standards.
We can offer growers both standard and bespoke herbicide resistance testing for:
Visit our Herbicide Resistance Testing service webpage to order.
With decades of experience in weed control in the arable and horticulture industry, we have a detailed understanding of weed identification, biology and ecology, including:
Contact us if you would like help with weed identification or biology.
ADAS developed an online encyclopedia to assist with the identification of grass and broadleaf weeds. Each entry includes information on biology, probable locations, control methods, and benefits for wildlife.
Contact Lynn Tatnell lynn.tatnell@adas.co.uk if you require more information on any of the above or require help with:
To see a range of our previous research and guidance, visit the WRAG webpage on the AHDB website.
The control of perennial weeds in organic and low input farming systems, 2011
Electrical weeding in bush and cane fruit, 2020
Enabling the uptake of integrated pest management (IPM) in UK arable rotations, 2021
Electrical weed control of docks – European Innovation Program Report, 2021
View our full range of agricultural and environmental services