Rimsulfuron tank mixed with flumioxazin, pendimethalin, or oryzalin for control of broadleaf weeds in citrus

Abstract

Herbicides are usually applied multiple times by growers for season long weed control in Florida citrus (Citrus sp.). Rimsulfuron, a sulfonylurea herbicide has been recently registered for control of certain grasses and broadleaf weeds in citrus. To increase the weed control spectrum and reduce application cost, citrus growers often prefer to tank mix herbicides. Field experiments were conducted in 2010 and 2011 in citrus groves in central Florida to evaluate weed control efficacy and crop safety of rimsulfuron applied alone or in tank mixes with flumioxazin, pendimethalin, or oryzalin. Herbicides were applied sequentially in spring and fall in both years on the same experimental plot. Results suggested that rimsulfuron applied alone controlled >80% broadleaf and grass weeds up to 30 days after treatment (DAT) and was comparable to tank mixing rimsulfuron with pendimethalin or oryzalin; however, control was reduced beyond 30 DAT. Rimsulfuron tank mixed with flumioxazin was the most effective treatment at 30 and 60 DAT that provided, respectively, ≥88% and >75%, control of broadleaf weeds including brazil pusley (Richardia brasiliensis), dog fennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), cotton weed (Froelichia floridana), and virginia pepperweed (Virginia virginicum) compared with other treatments. Control of natalgrass (Melinis repens) was higher in all tank mix treatments compared with rimsulfuron applied alone with no difference among tank mix partners. Rimsulfuron tank mixed with pendimethalin or oryzalin had no advantage over rimsulfuron applied alone for control of broadleaf weeds. Among sequential applications, weed control was better after fall herbicide application (August) compared with spring (April) because of residual activity of fall applied herbicides. Rimsulfuron tank mixed with flumioxazin will provide citrus growers with an additional weed control option.