Paspalum Overview

Overview

The problem

Paspalum (Paspalum Diatatum) is a difficult-to-control, warm-season, Rhizomatous, Perennial Grassy Weed. Paspalum is native to South America. It is a major weed particularly in the sub-tropical regions of Australia, although it is also a problem in all southern states as well.

Historically, repeated applications of organic arsenicals (MSMA, DSMA) have been used with inconsistent results. Recent introduction of the post-emergent herbicide Tribute^® has provided a new tool to effectively control paspalum in a planned program of herbicide applications.

What to look for

Paspalum is a large, course-textured, clump-forming, warm-season Perennial Weed. These clumps can be very unsightly in desirable golf turf and will continue to increase in size if not controlled. Paspalum develops short, thick Rhizomes and spreads via these Rhizomes as well as seed. This weed has a distinctive greyish-green colour with rather large leaves, 6–13 mm wide. It also produces a large seedhead and is a heavy seed producer.

The solution

Tribute can be used on both Couch Grass and Zoysia Grass. The following points need to be considered for success in controlling Paspalum with Tribute:

• Application timing is critical for success for optimum Paspalum control; applications outside the ideal timing will provide Paspalum suppression.
• Initial application timing should be in the late summer/early autumn while the Paspalum is still actively growing and not under stress (e.g., water stress/drought conditions).
• Applying a systemic herbicide, such as Tribute, during this period promotes movement of the active ingredients down to the roots, aiding in effective control.
• A programmed approach of DSMA or MSMA followed by two applications of Tribute at 14-day intervals has been shown to give the best control.
• Always read and follow label directions.

Technical Information

Application
First	Second	Third	% Paspalum control at 37 days
DSMA			15
DSMA	Tribute		63
DSMA	Tribute	Tribute	100

Apply Tribute at 2 litres per hectare for the control of paspalum. Make one or two applications at a 14-day interval following an application of an MSMA or DSMA product at label rate. The pre-treatment with MSMA or DSMA increases the uptake and translocation of the subsequent Tribute applications.

Trials have shown that best control is achieved from autumn applications.

Paspalum controlled with Tribute/DSMA. Photos: Bayer CropScience. As of Oct 4th 2022, the Environmental Science division of Bayer was divested. Note that this content was produced prior to separation.

To find out more information about Envu's products and services, reach out to our team.

Always read the label before use.

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