Slash Pine Response to Spot Applications of Hexazinone Pellets for Release from Oak Competition

Abstract

Hexazinone formulated as pellets was applied at three rates (0.3, 0.6, 0.9 lb ai/ac) in a 3-yr-old slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm. var. elliottii) plantation in northern Florida to determine herbicide effects on oak competition and subsequent diameter, height, and volume growthof the pines. All three rates significantly reduced the number of oaks, with the reduction linearly related to application rate. Pine growth increased as rate increased and hardwood stocking decreased, although growth for the 0.6 and 0.9 lb/ac rates were not significantly different. Treatmenteffects on growth rates lasted through the first 6 years after herbicide application. The results support the use of the lowest recommended label rates for control of oaks with dry formulations of hexazinone on well-drained sandy soils. South. J. Appl. For. 16(3):133-138.