Prodiamine Controlled Florida Betony (Stachys floridana) in Leatherleaf Fern (Rumohra adiantiformis)

Abstract

Field and container studies were conducted to determine effects of prodiamine on Florida betony and leatherleaf fern. Effects of Florida betony competition on leatherleaf fern frond yield and quality were also determined. Seed germination and growth and flowering of established Florida betony decreased with increasing prodiamine application rates; 4.5 kg ai ha-1or higher prevented seed germination and eliminated or nearly eradicated established betony one year after treatment. Prodiamine treatments up to 6.7 kg ai ha-1did not affect leatherleaf fern growth, frond yield (number, fresh weight) or quality (color, size, vase life). When leatherleaf fern and Florida betony were grown together in containers for 7 mo, fern frond yield and quality were reduced.