Effect of Activated Charcoal on Herbicide Injury During Establishment of Centipedegrass1

Abstract

AbstractControlling weeds with herbicides during the establishment of centipedegrass [Eremochloa ophiuroides (Munro) Hack.] often results in severe turfgrass injury. Experiments were conducted on Cecil sandy clay (Typic Hapludult) and Cecil sandy loam soils to determine if turfgrass sprigs dipped in activated charcoal before planting would protect the grass from herbicide injury when applied after planting for weed control.Dipping centipedegrass sprigs in activated charcoal improved early growth and appearance of the turfgrass when treated immediately after sprigging with herbicides for weed control. The rate of turfgrass growth (ground cover) during the first growing season was also improved in most instances by activated charcoal dip when treated with all herbicides except DCPA (dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate). Activated charcoal treatment did not generally affect weed control during the establishment period. Therefore, when herbicides are used for weed control during establishment of centipedegrass, the rate of establishment was improved by activated charcoal treatments.