THE solution for clean fields
Effective herbicides against your blackgrass, ryegrass and other weeds
Scientific accuracy
Our resistance tests are based on a standardized scientific methodology to ensure reliable results — and optimal outcomes in your fields!
Over 2000 satisfied customers
Successful in 12 EU countries
In addition to the DACH region, we support farmers in France, Sweden, Denmark, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, Romania, Lithuania, and Poland in controlling grass weeds and maintaining clean fields.
The Agris42 resistance test for clean crops and effective herbicides
We investigate which herbicides are still effective for each of your problem weeds and grass weeds and which control success you can expect.
In our investigation process, which is based on the latest scientific methods, we can test every foliar and soil-active herbicide for you.
Worthwhile from a field size of 3 ha!
How to proceed
Follow the simple steps below to find out which herbicides are still effective on your land and against your weeds, such as blackgrass and ryegrass!
Collect seed sample and send them to us
Analysis and resistance testing
Receive results and apply effective herbicides
You will receive the results via email. For each herbicide tested, you’ll see the percentage of efficiency, along with a photo of the tested samples for visual reference.
Precision and quality
for your success
In our state-of-the-art greenhouse
Frequently asked questions
Here you will find the most frequently asked questions on the topic of correct sampling for a resistance test
How do I collect a sample for resistance testing?
After placing your order, you will receive a resistance kit from us. It includes detailed sampling instructions, suitable packaging materials, and an order form where you can simply check the desired analysis.
Then, collect a coffee cup (approx. 200 ml) of ripe seeds in the provided sample bag and return it to us—free of charge. Sampling is usually possible from early July.
When can I collect a sample?
We require a sample of ripe seeds from grass weeds or broadleaf weeds.
For grass weeds such as blackgrass (Alopecurus myosuroides), the seeds are usually ripe when the first grains fall from the top of the seed head. At this point, collect additional ripe seeds from several plants until you have approximately 200 ml. Then send the sample to us.
Can I mix seeds from multiple fields?
We advise against this. Our results show that resistance levels can vary significantly even between fields that have been managed in a similar way.
Therefore, you should either collect a separate sample for each field or focus on fewer fields to ensure more meaningful and interpretable results.
How many spots in the field should I collect seeds from?
As with soil sampling, only a representative sample collected from several locations in the field will provide a meaningful result. If several nests are visible, a composite sample of these nests should be collected. If you plan to treat parts of the field differently or have used different herbicides on different areas, be sure not to mix these zones during sampling.
Do I need an untreated control plot (zero plot)?
No.
While plants from untreated areas (zero plots) might seem useful since they haven’t been exposed to herbicides, resistance typically occurs in patches. This means the chance of placing the zero plot in the wrong spot is high. To obtain a representative picture of the field, you would need to establish several zero plots at different locations—something that’s rarely practical.
How many fields should I test?
There is no general answer to this question. It is important that you get an idea of the resistance situation on your farm as early as possible, because once resistance is established, it is extremely difficult to reverse (see section “Ineffective herbicides due to resistance?”). If you notice patches remaining after herbicide application, this may already indicate the presence of resistant weeds.
I’m not satisfied with my herbicide’s performance—could resistance be the reason?
It’s not always the case, but our observations suggest that resistance is responsible in more than 50% of cases where herbicides fail in the field.
Ineffective herbicides due to resistance?
Below you will find useful information on the development, handling and prevention of herbicide resistance
What exactly is herbicide resistance?
Herbicide resistance is a naturally acquired trait that enables a plant to survive a herbicide dose that would normally be lethal.
In practical terms, this means that standard application rates may no longer be effective.
How does herbicide resistance develop?
Herbicide resistance is a naturally occurring characteristic—not caused by herbicide use itself. However, frequent application of the same herbicides selects for plants carrying this trait over time.
It’s estimated that 1 in 100,000 to 1 in 10 million plants may carry resistance—even without previous herbicide exposure.
With weed populations of 1,000 plants per square meter, this means that 1 to 100 resistant plants per hectare may already be present before the first application.
Without integrating agronomic practices and with repeated herbicide use, resistant plants will become increasingly dominant.
What can be done to combat resistance?
The first step is resistance testing to determine which herbicides are still effective—because there is no such thing as “the” resistance.
Our test gives you a clear overview of which herbicides (and in which crops) you can still use, allowing you to adapt your crop rotation and agronomic strategies accordingly.
How long does it take until the current resistances disappear again?
There’s no definitive timeframe. However, a return to full herbicide efficacy is unlikely within 10 to 20 years.
Research suggests it may take over 50 to even 100 years. This highlights the importance of early detection and proactive resistance management.
How widespread is resistance in Europe?
Herbicide resistance has been the subject of scientific research since the 1960s. Nevertheless, until recently there was no inexpensive, preventative testing option, so that resistance to 22 of 28 mechanisms of action is currently occurring in 82 crop species in Europe. Of these, however, only a few weeds and grasses are of agronomic importance. However, only a few of these species are of major agronomic concern—most notably blackgrass (Alopecurus myosuroides) and silky bent (Apera spica-venti), but increasingly also ryegrass (Lolium spp.) and bromes (Bromus spp.).
The Agris42 team
By your side — for cleaner fields, higher yields, and renewed joy in farming!
Our team of experienced agronomists and farmers work tirelessly to help you get your blackgrass, ryegrass and weed problems under control.
