(NAFB) – Supply chain disruptions and material shortages are fueling speculation about a herbicide shortage for the 2022 agriculture growing season.

Allan Gray, executive director of the Purdue University Center for Food and Agricultural Business, suggests, “Flooding, COVID-19 outbreaks and congested ports disrupted production and exports in China for months, resulting in chemical manufactures rationing supply.”

Bill Johnson, Purdue professor of weed science and Purdue Extension weed specialist, encourages producers to plan to minimize the impact on corn and soybean production in the Midwest. Glyphosate and glufosinate are the two main active ingredients that potentially may be in short supply for the next growing season. Johnson warns, “Plan your upcoming weed control strategies to accommodate for limited availability because of supply or price of these two active ingredients.”

Even if there isn’t a widespread shortage, farmers will likely encounter higher chemical prices resulting in major challenges for corn and soybean production.