Multi-pump control system and method

A hydraulic control system for a work machine is disclosed. The hydraulic control system has a first pump, a second pump, an operator control device, and a controller. The first and second pumps are configured to pressurize a fluid. The operator control device is movable through a range of motion from a neutral position to a maximum position to generate a corresponding control signal. The controller is in communication with the first pump, the second pump, and the operator control device. The controller is configured to receive the control signal, affect operation of the first pump in response to the control signal as the operator control device is moved throughout the range of motion, and affect operation of the second pump in response to the control signal only as the operator control device is moved through a portion of the range of motion.