G.L. Graham1 and M.J. Melanson1
Parter:
Bleuets NB Blueberries
Abstract: Sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella) populations within wild
blueberry production areas have increased recently. Herbicide options, such as
mesotrione and hexazinone, can be quite variable in their control levels. A
trial was established near Aulac, New Brunswick to evaluate the effects of crop
year herbicide applications on sheep sorrel and blueberries. Crop injury and
yield reductions were noted for sulfentrazone, flumioxazin and
carfentrazone-ethyl applications at the V2/V3 stage of blueberry development.
Hexazinone and mesotrione applications had minimal effects on the blueberry
crop at this time. Sheep sorrel control was highly variable. High rates of
sulfentrazone gave control by the end of the trial, while hexazinone,
mesotrione and low rates of sulfentrazone all significantly reduced sheep
sorrel populations. Flumioxazin and carfentrazone were largely ineffective.
Future work on improved timing of application for sulfentrazone along with the
evaluation of combined crop and sprout year herbicide applications should be
evaluated.
1NB Department of Agriculture and Aquaculture, Crop Development Branch, P. O. Box 6000, Fredericton, NB E3B 5H1
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