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Invasive Chinese Fountain Grass Herbicide Control

Applied Research

Cody Salmon
University of Arkansas
Harrison

Abstract

Chinese fountain grass was virtually unheard of in Northwest Arkansas until September 2023, after a concerned producer contacted the Boone County Extension Office about an unusual grass overtaking a pasture. A farm visit was made, and pictures and samples were obtained. After researching this grass, we contacted the University of Missouri Extension to help confirm our suspicions. Chinese fountain grass Pennisetum alopecuroides was then confirmed growing in Boone County Arkansas. After visiting the pasture and talking to the producer, we learned that Chinese fountain grass can consume a field quickly. The producer had noticed this unusual plant growing for multiple years and attempted to remedy the problem by frequently clipping the pasture throughout the summer and fall. This had proved ineffective and likely led to the rapid spread of Chinese fountain grass. Surrounding County Extension Agents and the Forage Instructor for the University of Arkansas Extension Service were contacted about helping carry out an on-farm herbicide research efficacy trial to determine treatment options. On October 26th ,2023 a trial was established using 10 different herbicide formulations, repeated mowings, and a control plot. Plots were replicated 3 times using a random block design. Stand occupancy counts were also recorded prior to treatment being applied. The first frost was recorded on October 29th, 2023. The spring treatment date was May 29th, 2024. The same 10 herbicide formulations were used. Plots were reevaluated on July 11th, 2024, approximately six weeks after the spring treatment. Stand occupancy counts were retaken to determine Chinese fountain grass presence. After data was collected and analyzed, this study shows treatments of glyphosate during the growing season to be most effective. Stands of Chinese fountain grass can be reduced by 97% by using either 1 or 1.5qts of glyphosate. Treatments during the fall, after seed heads have established, proved to be ineffective. Mowing Chinese fountain grass showed a reduction of 30% in stand counts, but seed was still produced, so this method is not effective. Currently, the best option for control is identification and treatments with glyphosate before the plant becomes reproductive and produces seed.     

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: Cody Salmon , Brad Runsick, Brian See, Monty Rexwinkle, Kenny Simon
  1. Salmon , C. Staff Chair/Agriculture Agent, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension, Arkansas, 72601
  2. Runsick, B. Staff Chair/Agriculture Agent, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension, Arkansas, 72653
  3. See, B. Staff Chair/Agriculture Agent, University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension, Arkansas, 72687
  4. Rexwinkle, M. Agriculture Agent , University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension, Arkansas, 72616
  5. Simon, K. Instructor Forages , University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension, Arkansas, 72204