Efficacy and crop selectivity of saflufenacil alone and with partner herbicides for weed control in maize

Abstract

The recently developed herbicide saflufenacil was evaluated in six field trials, between 2008 and 2011, for weed control in maize (Zea mays) crops. Trial sites varied considerably in soil characteristics and weed spectrum. No phytotoxicity or visual damage symptoms were observed in any of the six cultivars planted. When used alone at 70 or 105 g ai/ha, saflufenacil provided effective control of annual broadleaf weeds including atrazine- and dicamba-resistant fathen (Chenopodium album), but had little activity on grass weeds. In combination with acetochlor, both rates of saflufenacil provided good control of annual grass and broadleaf weeds in all but one trial. In crops with a high weed pressure, especially grass weeds, a follow up post-emergence herbicide would be required to maximise control. Combinations of saflufenacil with up to 1200 g ai/ha of dimethenamid-p were generally less effective than with acetochlor. A strong negative relationship was evident between weed density and maize silage or grain yields.