Tolerance of three deep south non-turf ornamental groundcovers to applications of postemergence herbicides1

Abstract

Ornamental groundcovers are a popular alternative to turfgrass in landscapes due to their low maintenance requirements, pest resistance, and shade tolerance. Weed control is a challenge in these groundcovers because few herbicide options are available. The objective of this research was to determine the tolerance of the groundcovers Asiatic jasmine [Trachelospermum asiaticum (Nakai) ‘Minima’], perennial peanut [Arachis pintoi (Krapov.& W.C. Greg.) ‘Golden Glory’] and dwarf mondo grass [Ophiopogon japonicus (L.f.) Ker Gawl.] ‘Nana’] to herbicides, including bentazon, clopyralid, fluazifop-P-butyl, glufosinate, halosulfuron, imazaquin, sethoxydim, sulfentrazone, and sulfosulfuron applied at approximately 2 times the label rate. Asiatic jasmine and perennial peanut were evaluated in Apopka, FL and dwarf mondo grass was evaluated in Mobile, AL. Bentazon, clopyralid, glufosinate, glyphosate, and sulfosulfuron caused unacceptable injury and/or a reduction in shoot growth for all three species while fluazifop-P-butyl and sethoxydim caused no injury to any species. Halosulfuron caused minor injury but significantly reduced growth of dwarf mondo grass. Sulfentrazone caused no injury to Asiatic jasmine or perennial peanut but caused severe injury to dwarf mondo grass after only one application. Similarly, imazaquin caused only minor injury to Asiatic jasmine and dwarf mondo grass but significantly reduced growth of perennial peanut after two applications.