Control of Understory Vegetation in Allegheny Hardwood Stands with Oust

Abstract

Abstract Sulfometuron methyl (methyl 2-[[[[(4,6-dimethyl-2-pyrimidinyl) - amino]carbonyl]amino]sulfonyl]-benzoate), marketed under the trade name Oust Weed Killer by E. I. DuPont de Nemours and Co., was evaluated for its ability to control three herbaceous (hay-scented fern, New York fern, and short husk grass) and two woody species (striped maple and American beech) in the under-story of Allegheny hardwood stands. The herbicide was applied at four rates, 0, 2, 4, and 8 oz of product/ac, at the beginning of each month from May through November. Both ferns were nearly completely controlled at all application rates made between July 1 and October 1. Other dates of application gave less control and were rate-dependent. Short husk grass was not completely controlled at any time, but the most effective treatments were for the highest rate applied from September 1 through November 1. Striped maple and beech were not affected by any of the treatments. North. J. Appl. For. 5:261-262, December 1988.