Abstract

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate preemergence herbicides for control of black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) in nursery containers. In 2006, granular preemergence herbicides were applied to recently filled, weed-free containers in May just prior to seed release from mature cottonwood trees. Flumioxazin provided the most effective cottonwood control, although control with isoxaben + trifluralin, oxyfluorfen + oryzalin, and pendimethalin was also effective. In 2007, containers were filled February 15, and herbicides were applied to separate groups of containers on February 22, March 14, April 16, and May 15. Containers were over-seeded with cottonwood for a 2-week period starting on May 16. Control with most herbicides improved as the date of application neared the date of seeding. Flumioxazin provided the most effective control throughout the experiment, but control from it also improved as the date of application neared the time of seeding.