A Nigerian academic and member of the Weed Science Society of America, Dr Olumide Daramola, has gained international recognition for his groundbreaking research in weed management.

A statement made available to The PUNCH said his work was shaping advancements in weed science and playing a crucial role in enhancing global food security.

The US-based scholar earned his first PhD in Weed Science from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria, followed by a second PhD in Agronomy from the University of Florida.

Currently engaged in research on integrated weed management in peanut, soybean, and cotton, Daramola’s expertise has placed him at the forefront of significant agricultural innovations.

His contributions are helping address critical challenges in modern crop management.

“In early 2024,  Daramola publ research highlighting the impact of spray water pH and hardness on herbicide efficacy, emphasising the need for water quality testing in agricultural practices. His findings revealed that water pH levels outside the ideal range of 6 to 7, as well as hard water with high mineral content, can significantly reduce the effectiveness of herbicides.”

He explained how variations in water quality can alter herbicide solubility and absorption, affecting their ability to target weeds efficiently. For instance, at low pH levels, certain herbicides become less soluble, while high pH levels can chemically alter their composition, diminishing their effectiveness.

Hard water compounds the issue by binding to herbicides, making them less accessible to plant tissues.”

It added that Daramola’s research also stressed the importance of testing water sources for pH and mineral content, particularly for growers using multiple water sources, where quality can vary.

His recommendations included using test kits to assess water conditions, employing pH adjusters for neutralisation, and adding ammonium sulfate to mitigate the effects of hard water.

He cautioned against complex pesticide mixtures that could alter the performance of individual chemicals, stressing the importance of attention to detail in spray preparations to maximise herbicide efficacy.

This research holds particular relevance in regions like Africa, where resource constraints often limit farmers’ ability to optimise agricultural inputs.

By highlighting practical solutions and best practices, Daramola’s work provides actionable insights for improving crop management, particularly in resource-limited settings.

“Dr. Daramola’s achievements exemplify the potential of interdisciplinary thinking and global collaboration in addressing pressing agricultural challenges. His dedication serves as an inspiration to the next generation of scientists, demonstrating how innovative research can drive meaningful contributions to sustainable agriculture and global food security,” it added.