Imazapyr seed dressings for Striga control on acetolactate synthase target-site resistant maize

• Published in: Crop protection Vol. 20; no. 10; pp. 885 - 895
• Main Authors: Kanampiu, Fred K, Ransom, Joel K, Gressel, Jonathan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01-12-2001
• Subjects: Acetolactate synthase resistance; Herbicide seed dressings; Imazapyr; Maize; Striga; Acetolactate synthase resistance; Striga; Maize; Herbicide seed dressings; Imazapyr
• ISSN: 0261-2194; 1873-6904
• DOI: 10.1016/S0261-2194(01)00038-2

High herbicide levels can be localized on or near seed of acetolactate synthase (ALS) resistant maize (
Zea mays). The magnesium salt of imazapyr was optimal for seed dressings (drenching, priming, and coating), for preventing field damage from parasitic
Striga hermonthica (witchweed) in three seasons.
Striga emerged on untreated maize from 6 to 12 weeks after planting. There was almost no
Striga emergence for 3 months on imazapyr-dressed homozygous ALS-R 3245IR maize seeds. Occasional
Striga that emerged and flowered formed no seed by harvest. Dust or polyvinylpyrrolidone adhesive coatings were safer in maize and as effective in
Striga control as priming. Seed dressing coupled with pulling
Striga escapes reduces infestation and can be used to deplete the
Striga seed bank until genetic crop resistance becomes available.