Factors Affecting EPTC Injury to Navy Bean

Abstract

Injury to navy bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.) from EPTC (S-ethyl dipropylthiocarbamate) was investigated as a function of soil moisture, planting depth, soil compaction, temperature, available nitrogen, and seed quality. Experiments in the greenhouse and growth chamber showed that both high and low moisture stress increased injury. Deep planting increased the injury from high rates of EPTC. Soil compaction alone reduced plant growth. In combination with EPTC at 4.5 kg/ha, further growth reduction was observed. Ambient temperature did not alter susceptibility to EPTC. Stimulation of growth by nitrogen as measured by increased fresh weight was inhibited by EPTC. Field and greenhouse studies showed that EPTC injury was greater to mechanically damaged seed than non-damaged seed.