Field Sandbur (Cenchrus spinifex) Control and Bermudagrass Response to Nicosulfuron Tank Mix Combinations

Abstract

Research was conducted in 2006 and 2007 to evaluate nicosulfuron tank-mixes for field sandbur control and crop injury to ‘Tifton 85’ and ‘Jiggs’ bermudagrass. In 2006, sequential applications of nicosulfuron + metsulfuron controlled field sandbur 86 to 90% 30 d after treatment (DAT) and 77 to 85% 90 DAT. Single applications of nicosulfuron provided less than 63% control 90 DAT. In 2007, sequential applications of nicosulfuron + metsulfuron controlled field sandbur 84 to 95% 42 DAT. Injury data showed Jiggs bermudagrass was generally more sensitive to herbicide treatment than Tifton 85. Injury to Tifton 85 bermudagrass ranged from 0 to 15%, whereas injury to Jiggs was 7 to 29% 22 DAT. Forage yield data for Jiggs showed significant reductions at the first and second harvests but no differences by the third harvest. No yield reduction was noted for Tifton 85 bermudagrass from any herbicide treatment. Results of these studies indicate that nicosulfuron + metsulfuron combinations are a viable option for field sandbur control in bermudagrass pastures.