Downy brome (Bromus tectorum) control in winter wheat and winter rye

Abstract

Field studies were conducted over 4 yr to identify herbicides for selective control of downy brome in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and winter rye (Secale cereale L.). Cinmethylin, diclofop, and napropamide did not control downy brome in any year. BAY SMY 1500 applied pre-emergence or early postemergence at 1.5–2.0 kg ha−1 controlled downy brome and increased the yield of winter wheat. However, BAY SMY 1500 treatments often reduced the growth and yield of winter rye. Metribuzin applied early postemergence at 0.42 kg ha−1 effectively controlled downy brome and increased the yield of both winter wheat and winter rye. Metribuzin applied at 0.42–0.56 kg ha−1 pre-emergence on a coarse-textured soil with 2% organic matter injured winter wheat and reduced yield. Key words:Bromus tectorum L., cinmethylin, diclofop, BAY SMY 1500, metribuzin, napropamide