Low-Cost Weed Control Systems for Close-Row Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea)

Abstract

Weed control, yield, quality, and net return in reduced-cost and standard weed control systems were studied in “Sunbelt runner’ peanuts (Arachis hypogaeaL.) planted in a twin-row pattern in 1982 to 85 at Tifton, GA, and 1982 to 84 at Headland, AL. Reduced herbicide rates and/or less expensive herbicides were used to decrease weed control costs. In years and locations where weed populations were low there were no differences in weed control, crop yield, or quality. The lowest cost treatment, which included three applications of paraquat (1,1′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium ion), caused reduced weed control at both locations in 1982 and reduced yield in 1982 and 1984. None of the systems consistently resulted in the highest weed control, crop yield, or quality. A system including reduced rates of preplant-incorporated herbicides followed by two applications of paraquat performed as well as the standard system but cost about 40% less. Due to low cost and generally high yields this system resulted in consistently high net returns. Results indicate that the potential exists for reducing herbicide inputs without sacrificing yield or quality.