Pasto cubano weed expansion threatens Argentine crop yields

Specialists at the Weed Congress in Córdoba have warned about the expansion of 'Pasto cubano' (Tithonia tubaeformis), a weed that is increasingly threatening productive zones in Argentina. Originally entering the country via Jujuy in 1956 and declared a national pest in 1983, the species has expanded from the Northwest region (NOA) into areas like Córdoba.

The weed is characterized by its massive size, capable of reaching seven meters in height with stems up to seven centimeters in diameter. It forms large thickets that compete aggressively with crops such as sugarcane, corn, and beans. In sugarcane trials, experts observed yield losses exceeding 40% when the weed establishes itself. Its high seed production and ability to remain undetected beneath crops until rapid growth occurs make management particularly difficult.

In response to this growing threat, UPL Corp Argentina introduced Karobiz, a new post-emergent herbicide based on topramezone designed for use in sugarcane and corn crops.