Evaluation of Non-fumigant Pesticides as Methyl Bromide Alternatives for Managing Weeds in Vegetables

Abstract

The phase out of methyl bromide M"r challenged vegetable growers' abilities to control weeds in low-density polyethylene LDPE mulch production systems. The herbicides halosulfuron, fomesafen, S-metolachlor, and clomazone are needed as part of the pesticide program in LDPE vegetable production to control weeds including Cyperus species. Experiments were conducted during the spring and autumn of , evaluating Cyperus rotundus, bell pepper, and cucumber response to these herbicides applied to soil immediately prior to LDPE laying. Halosulfuron, fomesafen, S-metolachlor, and clomazone applied to soil under LDPE mulch did not negatively impact stand and growth of bell pepper in spring or autumn experiments, or cucumber in spring trials. However, there was significantly less growth in the autumn experiment as halosulfuron, S-metolachlor plus clomazone plus halosulfuron or fomesafen, reduced vine length. Cyperus rotundus suppression and control was achieved with halosulfuron alone and when used in combinations with S-metolachlor plus clomazone, and combinations of S-metolachlor plus clomazone plus fomesafen. These herbicides provided weed control that were comparable to M"r plus chloropicrin M"rR-C . Using herbicides for control and suppression of Cyperus rotundus in combination with safety for pepper and cucumber will allow growers to implement new control strategies into their vegetable production systems.

Chromatic Validation of Herbicides Used in Vegetable Production

“…Chromatic Validation of Herbicides Used in Vegetable Production DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.1003229 crops [5]. This includes the use of herbicides applied to the soil surface as mulch is laid, or between crops as part of the rotation (Figure 2) [6]. Most LDPE mulch laid for spring vegetable production is followed by a second crop in the autumn and potentially a third crop the following spring [7].…”

“…This is done in order to minimize expenses associated with mulch and drip tape irrigation by distributing costs over multiple crops. However, the use of herbicides can result in injury and crop losses when sensitive vegetable species are exposed to previous applications [6]. The quantification of herbicide residues from field applied experiments is critical to maintain plant safety, and consistent vegetable production.…”

“…), squash (Cucurbita pepo L.), and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.). A second autumn crop often includes cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.), eggplant, cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), or squash [3][4][5][6]. There was no injury issue with respect to rotation of vegetables when using MBr as a fumigant.…”