THE EFFECTS OF 2,4-D SPRAY DRIFT ON SUNFLOWERS

Abstract

At Saskatoon the effects of drift spray of the butyl ester, low volatile ester, and amine formulations of 2,4-D on growing sunflowers all resulted in distortion of the leaves and stems, and malformed heads. Effects decreased with distance but were clearly discernible at 120 rods. With a wind velocity of 9 miles per hour after 1 hour of spraying the total seed yield was reduced by 42, 38, and 37 per cent for ester, low volatile ester, and amine, respectively. Seed quality decreased with proximity to the sprayed area.Similar damage occurred at Morden when low volatile ester of 2,4-D was applied adjacent to a breeding nursery.