Persistence of S-metolachlor in the soil as affected bmoisture content

Abstract

Background: Several factors may affect herbicide fate in the soil, including soil moisture which can affect herbicide availability and degradation and mixture with other degradable herbicides. Objective: The objectives of this research were to evaluate the effects of soil moisture content and association with glyphosate on S-metolachlor persistence in lowland soil. Methods: Greenhouse experiments were conducted in 2011 and repeated in 2012 using a randomized complete block design in a factorial arrangement (3x3x5) with four replications. Factor A included three soil moisture contents (air-dried, water holding capacity, and saturated), and factor B included two herbicide combinations (S-metolachlor; S-metolachlor + glyphosate) plus an untreated check. Factor C included five intervals between application and sowing of the bioindicator species (rice): 150, 120, 90, 60, and 30 days before sowing. Herbicide injury, height in rice plants, and herbicide concentration in soil was evaluated. Results: S-metolachlor concentration and injury to rice were higher under dry soil conditions regardless of application timing. In contrast, rice injury was significantly lower in the soil saturated condition. The association with glyphosate did not affect S-metolachlor persistence in lowland soil. Conclusion: These results indicate that S-metolachlor exhibits shorter persistence under saturated soil conditions; and indicated that drought periods following S-metolachlor applications may increase carryover to sensitive crops planted in rotation.