Superweed Crisis: Glyphosate-Resistant Waterhemp Spreads in New York, Threatens Crops
17 March 2025, New York: A fast-growing, seed-producing menace is spreading across New York farmland, and new research confirms it’s more resilient than ever. Waterhemp, one of the most destructive weeds U.S. farmers battle, has developed strong resistance to glyphosate—the go-to herbicide for weed control.
A recent study published in Weed Technology found that waterhemp samples from Seneca County soybean fields were five to 12 times more resistant to glyphosate than non-resistant counterparts. Conducted by Cornell researchers, the study also identified other herbicides that can still combat the weed, but alarming signs of resistance to additional chemicals were also observed.
Growing Concern for Farmers
“Confirming glyphosate resistance in New York is a wake-up call,” said Vipan Kumar, associate professor of weed science at Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “Waterhemp, along with Palmer amaranth, is one of the toughest weeds in the U.S., and resistance to multiple herbicides is spreading fast. Farmers need to rethink their weed control strategies before it’s too late.”
Since its first appearance in New York in 2014, waterhemp has spread to 23 counties, earning its reputation as a “superweed” due to its aggressive growth and adaptability. It can reduce soybean yields by 43% and slash corn yields by up to 74%, posing a major threat to crop production. Currently, around 75-80% of soybean farmers in New York rely on glyphosate as their primary weed control method, making this discovery particularly concerning.
Next Steps for Growers
Kumar and his team are urging farmers to diversify their weed control approach. They’ve identified additional herbicides, including dicamba, glufosinate, lactofen, and 2,4-D, that remain effective against waterhemp. However, some strains of the weed have already shown resistance to mesotrione, atrazine, and chlorimuron plus thifensulfuron, signaling the urgent need for alternative strategies.
“We can’t just switch herbicides and hope for the best,” Kumar warned. “Waterhemp evolves too quickly. A long-term, integrated approach is the only way to manage this problem.”
Farmers are encouraged to adopt weed control methods beyond chemicals, such as planting cover crops, using more competitive crop varieties, and ensuring equipment is properly cleaned to prevent the spread of resistant seeds. Researchers are also exploring innovative solutions, such as pulverizing waterhemp seeds in the soil post-harvest—a technique that has shown promise in other regions.
A Unique Challenge for New York
Unlike other states, New York has fewer herbicide options legally approved for use, making resistance management even more critical. “To preserve the tools we have, we need to think outside the box,” Kumar emphasized.
The study was conducted in collaboration with experts from Cornell Cooperative Extension, New York State Integrated Pest Management, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, and the University of Nebraska. It was supported by funding from the New York Corn and Soybean Growers Association.
With waterhemp’s rapid spread and growing resistance, the clock is ticking for farmers to adapt. A strategic, multi-pronged approach could be the key to preventing further crop losses and keeping this superweed in check.
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