DEVELOPING MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR BRUNSWICKGRASS IN BAHIAGRASS PASTURES

Cooper, C.1; Sellers, B.2
1Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent, UF/IFAS Extension Citrus County, Lecanto, FL, 34461
2Professor and Extension Weed Specialist, UF/IFAS Range Cattle and Education Center, Ona, FL, 33865

Abstract:

 Brunswickgrass (Paspalum nicorae Parodi), sometimes referred to as “Brown seeded paspalum”, is a problematic weed in summer perennial grass pastures in the southeast. In Florida we have seen increasing pressure to control this weed contaminate as it is becoming a major threat to livestock and bahiagrass seed industries. This rhizomatous grass is refused by cattle and seed could potentially restrict sales of contaminated bahiagrass seed lots. Currently, management options are limited; therefore, the objective of this research is to develop a management plan for Brunswickgrass in Bahiagrass seed production fields. Two experiments are currently underway with one being a continuation of a two-year titration study and the other focusing on application timing. Experiments were established within Citrus, Sumter and Pasco counties in 2018 to address Brunswickgrass response to the application of hexazinone at 0.14, 0.28, 0.56, 0.84, and 112 kg ai ha-1 . In 2019, an application timing study was established assessing control differences between month and rate. Applications were made monthly starting in May until September at rates of 0.56, 0.84, and 1.12 kg ai ha-1.. In the titration study, hexazinone appears to have significant activity. With an application of 0.56 kg ha-1 e 80% Brunswickgrass control was achieved. When the rate was increased to at least 0.84 kg ha-1 control increased to at least 94%. During the timing study, percent control increased as application timing was delayed. In May 64% control was achieved across all treatment rates and locations, while percent control increased to 95% in September.

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