Effect of AC 263,222, Imazethapyr, and Nicosulfuron on Weed Control and Imidazolinone-Tolerant Corn (Zea mays) Yield

Imidazolinone herbicides injure currently available commercial field corn cultivars; however, cultivars resistant to these herbicides have been developed. Sicklepod, Texas panicum, and annual morningglory control using AC 263,222 (36 and 72 g ai/ha), imazethapyr (36 and 72 g ai/ha), or nicosulfuron (35 g ai/ha) applied POST at 2,4, and 6 wk after planting were evaluated in imidazolinone-tolerant corn. Studies were conducted at Attapulgus and Plains, Georgia from 1992 through 1993. Nicosulfuron and AC 263,222 at 72 g/ha controlled Texas panicum at least 87% when applied 2 wk after planting. Imazethapyr did not consistently control Texas panicum or sicklepod, regardless of application rate. AC 263,222 at both rates and nicosulfuron controlled sicklepod at least 86% when applied 2 wk after planting; however, later application or application under dry conditions generally resulted in reduced control. All herbicides controlled the entireleaf and pitted morningglory complex at least 84% when applied 2 wk after planting. Imidazolinone-tolerant corn was tolerant to all herbicides, regardless of rate and timing, and generally yielded greater when weeds were controlled early in the season.