Preplanting Applications of Dinitroanilines in Cotton

Abstract

Two incorporation methods were used in applying eight dinitroaniline herbicides before planting cotton (Gossypium hirsutumL.) for 3 yr. Penoxalin [N-(1-ethylpropyl)-3,4-dimethyl-2,6-dinitrobenzenamine] gave the best stands of cotton. Nitralin [4-(methylsulfonyl)-2,6-dinitro-N,N-dipropylaniline] and dinitramine (N4,N4-diethyl-a,a,a-trifluoro-3,5-dinitrotoluene-2,4-diamine) resulted in the poorest stands. In 2 of 3 yr, cotton stands were better where herbicides were incorporated by listing only rather than by disking before listing. The eight herbicides were equally effective in annual grass control when followed by postemergence applications of diuron [3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea]. An-56477 [N,N-bis(2-chloroethyl)-4-methyl-2,6-dinitrobenzenamine] was least effective in controlling annual broadleaf weeds. In 1972, cotton yield was reduced when An-56477 was incorporated by disking. In the average cotton yields for six tests, An-56477 produced significantly lower yields than any other herbicide except butralin [4-(1,1-dimethylethyl-N-(1-methylpropyl)-2,6-dinitrobenzenamine]. No differences in cotton fiber properties or boll components were due to herbicides or method of application.