Weed blaster or propelled aggressive grit management - PAGman

PAGman

Over the past few years organic and sustainable farm researchers have attempted to control weeds using high velocity grit to hinder the growth of weeds in crop fields in particular field corn.  Corncob bits appear to be one of the most effective grit materials. 

USDA Researcher, Frank Forcella at Morris, MN  MN Star Tribune have been attempting to combine the corncob bits with cornmeal and other organic fertilizers to develop an organic weed and feed combination.  His research on corn row crops is availabe as a pdf at ( Weed Technology 2012 26:161-164 ). 

According to Mr. Forcella, using the initial prototypes, the current cost of application is 5 times the cost of chemical herbicides.  Cost of application is expected to fall as the machinery becomes mass produced and the technology improves.  Sam Wortman at the University of Illinois has focused on the horticultural applications for weed control in tomatoes and broccoli.

http://www.agriculture.com/crops/organic-farming/pest-control/add-some-grit-to-your-weed-control_172-ar44761

I am impressed with this technology.  Further research needs to be done regarding the most sustainable grit and the appropriate organic fertilizer mix.  This also has some positive implications for improving the quality of ground water and control of chemically resistant weeds.  I can also see the application for home gardening using a cone around the nozzle to protect adjacent plants.  The ergonomics of weed removal would be greatly improved.

Ror information on the USDA grant see Development and Demonstration of a New Method of Physical Weed Control with researchers Frank Forcella and Sharon Clay, SDSU.