Influence of timing and conditions on Galium activity with Lotus (R) combinations in small grain cereals

In a comprehensive trial program the factors affecting the efficacy of Lotu s(R) and Lotus(R) combinations were investigated. Lotus(R) is a fast acting contact herbicide with almost weather independent activity. However when L otus(R) is applied at higher temperatures to more advanced Galium aparine p lants basal buds which are not sufficiently covered by the spray solution c an regrow. In tankmixtures with systemic herbicides e.g. Duplosan KV(R) thi s regrowth could be successfully prevented demonstrating the excellent comp lementary activity of Lotus' with auxintype herbicides. A strong correlatio n was observed for Lotus(R) between spray coverage and weed control. Applic ations at water rates below 200 Vha reduced significantly the efficacy of L otus(R) on Galium aparine. Trials with artificial irrigation at various tim e intervals after application demonstrated the quick rainfastness of Lotus( R). Rainfall 1-2 hours after application did not affect the herbicidal acti vity of Lotus(R). To broaden the weed spectrum and to enhance the timing fl exibility Lotus(R) is recommended to be applied particularly in tankmixture with systemic acting herbicides like Duplosan KV(R) or Basagran DP(R). Yie ld trials demonstrated the advantage of early cleaver control with Lotus(R) combinations in winter cereals in spring.