Reduced Rates of Metribuzin and Time of Hilling Controlled Weeds in Potato

Abstract

The current emphasis on reducing herbicide applications has led to an increase in alternative weed control measures. Field experiment was conducted in the spring of 2014 to examine the effect of hilling-time and reduced-rates of metribuzin and their combinations on weed infestation in potato, and to determine their impact on potato yield. Metribuzin at 0.35, 0.56, or 0.75 kg ai/ha with or without hilling 6, 7, and 8 weeks after planting (WAP) were used. Weed count, weed control visual rating, weed dry weight, potato plant height, number of shoots and leaves, root dry weight, and potato yield were collected. Results showed that metribuzin, at all tested rates, with or without hilling significantly reduced weed infestation after 50, 70, and 110 days after planting (DAP) compared to the check. Best results were obtained by a combination of metribuzin at all tested rates with hilling 6, 7, and 8 WAP. The results suggest that long season weed control and high marketable yield could be achieved by metribuzin at 0.35 kg ai/ha (53% reduction in metribuzin) supplemented with hilling (6 WAP). None of the treatments was toxic to potato plants compared to the hand-weeded plots.