Effect of pH on the Phytotoxicity of Prometryne Applied to Synthetic Soil Media

Abstract

Additions of montmorillonite clay and soil of high organic matter content to growth media consisting of sand and nutrient solution significantly decreased the phytotoxicity of 2-methylthio-4,6-bis(isopropylamino)-s-triazine (prometryne) to wheat [Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell. (aestivum group) “Wakeland”]. Phytotoxicity was decreased to a greater extent at pH 4.5 than at pH 6.5. The reduction in phytotoxicity was attributed to adsorption of the herbicide by the additives. A larger proportion of the prometryne was present in the protonated form at the lower pH and the increased adsorption probably resulted from the coulombic bonding of these cations to the soil additives. Adsorption mechanisms are postulated and discussed.