Vaseygrass: Encroaching problem in Northeast Alabama Hayfields
Extension Education
D. Matthew Webb
Scottsboro
Abstract
Vaseygrass (Paspalum urvillei) is an invasive warm season grass that is native to South America. Historically, vaseygrass has been most problematic in pastures and hayfields along the Gulf Coast. However, its range is beginning to move north and it is encroaching on pastures and hayfields in North Alabama. There are few herbicide options for controlling vaseygrass in warm season grass systems such as bermudagrass and bahiagrass. Controlling vaseygrass in cool season grasses, such as tall fescue, presents a greater challenge and management options are minimal. To address farmers’ concerns, a demonstration was established in a field of vaseygrass located on Sand Mountain in Jackson County, Alabama. Three herbicide options at different rates were evaluated for vaseygrass and tall fescue survivability. Cornerstone Plus (3 lb ae/gal glyphosate) at rates of 6, 8 and 12 oz per acre, Panoramic (imazapic) at 6 and 12 fl oz per acre, and Pastora (nicosulfuron + metsulfuron) at 1.5 oz per acre. Herbicide application was made on August 24, 2022 using a 4-nozzle, CO2 backpack sprayer that delivered 15 gallons per acre water carrier volume on vaseygrass approximately 3.5 feet tall. Visual control assessments were made at 8 and 47 weeks after treatment, Oct. 20, 2022 and July 20, 2023, respectively. Evaluations at both dates indicated that 12 fl oz per acre Cornerstone Plus and both rates of Panoramic provided the greatest reduction in vaseygrass and the greatest increase in tall fescue. Future research includes further investigation into control options for vaseygrass in cool season grass pastures and hayfields.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
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Authors: D. Matthew Webb, David P Russell
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Webb, D. County Extension Director, Alabama Cooperative Extension System Jackson County, Alabama, 35768
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Russell, D. Assistant Research & Extension Professor, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Alabama, 36849