Influence of Norflurazon Induced Chlorosis on Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) Hay Production

Abstract

Research was conducted in central Georgia to determine the influence of norflurazon on bermudagrass stand and production when applied to newly sprigged bermudagrass and in the spring to dormant bermudagrass. Norflurazon at rates up to 1.12 kg ai/ha on newly sprigged bermudagrass caused moderate chlorosis to the emerging leaves but did not adversely influence stand density or ground cover at 60 and 90 days after treatment (DAT). Norflurazon applied to dormant bermudagrass the spring of 1993 resulted in greater than 50% foliage chlorosis at rates ≥ 1.68 kg/ha. Foliage chlorosis was 94% on bermudagrass treated with 3.36 kg/ha 30 DAT and at spring growth initiation. However, chlorosis level was reduced when bermudagrass began rapid growth. Forage production was not influenced by the early season chlorosis when compared to nontreated areas or areas treated with diuron at 1.12 kg/ha and the weed free check.