Effect of Dicamba on the Control of Striga hermonthica check for this species in other resources in Maize in Western Kenya

Abstract

Dicamba (2-methoxy-3,6-dichlorobenzoic acid) has been shown to be effective in controlling Striga asiatica in maize in the USA. Experiments were therefore conducted from 1990 to 1992 to evaluate its effectiveness against S. hermonthica in Western Kenya. Dicamba was more effective when applied at the rate of 0.75 kg a.i. ha^-1 compared to 0.50 kg a.i. ha^-1. Applying dicamba over the top of maize plants or post-directing it to the lower plant part did not significantly affect its effectiveness. Application at 30 days after planting was not as effective as delaying the application to 45 days after planting. Crop injury was observed early in a few cases, though the affected plants later recovered and yield was not affected. Dicamba was not persistent as Striga emerged later in the season. Although dicamba can provide some control early in the season, its low persistence implies that other control measures need to be integrated with it to avoid subsequent seed production by the Striga plants that germinate later in the season.

Keywords: Dicamba, maize, Striga hermonthica