Methods for controlling weeds

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for controlling dicotyledonous weeds in a habitat using an aqueous spray composition comprising pelargonic acid and a second herbicide selected from fluroxypyr, aminopyralid, triclopyr, clopyralid, florasulam, flazasulfuron and prosulfuron; the pelargonic acid is applied at a rate of 0.5 to 6 kg / ha.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for controlling the growth of undesirable vegetation, including noxious weeds and invasive plants. In particular, the present invention relates to a method for controlling the growth of undesirable dicotyledonous plants using a herbicidal composition comprising a combination of pelargonic acid and one or more selective herbicides. [Background technology]

[0002] The need to remove unwanted vegetation, such as unwanted plants and other noxious weeds and invasive plants, continues to be a recurring challenge in agriculture, as well as in landscaped and industrial areas. For example, it is often desirable to selectively remove problematic weeds and invasive species from roadsides, field roads, fence rows, utility tunnels, areas around and between railroad tracks, airports, and other infrastructure and industrial areas in order to safely maintain rights-of-way, to make signs and fixtures clear so that they are more visible and functional, to provide adequate drainage for road drainage ditches, to reduce fire hazards, and / or to slow or prevent the spread of noxious weeds.

[0003] To combat and help manage such vegetation problems, researchers in the field of synthetic chemistry have created a wide variety of chemicals and chemical formulations that are effective in suppressing such unwanted growth. Many types of chemical herbicides have been disclosed in the literature, and many are in commercial use. Commercially available herbicides and some still in development are described, for example, in "The Pesticide Manual", 19th Edition, 2021, by the British Crop Protection Council.

[0004] Herbicidal activity can be enhanced in various ways to maximize its effectiveness. One method to enhance herbicidal efficacy is to use mixtures. However, it is not easy to determine the appropriate combination of active ingredients, application rates, and water volume to be sprayed to achieve broad-spectrum control of broadleaf weeds and brush weeds while reducing environmental impact.

[0005] Pelargonic acid, also called nonanoic acid, is a nonselective herbicide with the structural formula CH3(CH2)7CO2H. Published patent application WO 9105472 discloses herbicidal compositions containing fatty acids such as pelargonic acid. Published patent EP 3245873 discloses certain herbicidal combinations including pelargonic acid and at least one ALS inhibitor selected from iodosulfuron-methyl, foramsulfuron, mesosulfuron-methyl, flazasulfuron, amidosulfuron, ethoxysulfuron, and thiencarbazone-methyl. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] There remains a need for improved dicotyledonous weed control methods, particularly broadleaf plant and shrub control methods that provide high residual herbicidal activity while reducing the amount of chemical herbicide required to achieve acceptable weed control. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In accordance with the present invention, it has now been found that certain selective herbicides, when co-applied with reduced rates of pelargonic acid, provide enhanced efficacy in controlling unwanted dicotyledonous plants.

[0008] The present invention therefore provides a method for controlling or managing unwanted dicotyledonous plants by spray application of pelargonic acid in combination with at least one herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of pyridyloxycarboxylic acid-auxin mimetics, acetolactate synthase inhibitors, carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitors and benzoate-auxin mimetics, wherein the pelargonic acid is applied at a rate of 0.5-6 kg / ha.

[0009] More specifically, the present invention provides a method for controlling unwanted dicotyledonous plants in a locus, comprising applying to the locus a dicotyledonous plant-controlling amount of an aqueous spray composition comprising pelargonic acid and at least one selective herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of pyridyloxycarboxylic acid-auxin mimetics, acetolactate synthase inhibitors, carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitors and benzoate ester-auxin mimetics; the amount of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the locus is 100-500 l / ha, and the pelargonic acid is applied to the locus at a rate of 0.5-6 kg / ha. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] An embodiment according to the method of the present invention is given below.

[0011] In one embodiment, the amount of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 100-500 l / ha; in another embodiment, the amount of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 200-400 l / ha.

[0012] In another embodiment, the amount of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 200 l / ha; in another embodiment, the amount of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 400 l / ha.

[0013] In one embodiment, according to the method of the present invention, pelargonic acid, a non-selective herbicide, is applied to the habitat at a rate of 0.5-6 kg / ha. In other embodiments, pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a rate of 0.5-1.2 kg / ha; or 1-1.7 kg / ha; or 1.5-3 kg / ha; or 2-3 kg / ha; or 1.7-6 kg / ha; or 2-6 kg / ha or 3-6 kg / ha. In a preferred embodiment, pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a rate of 1.7-6 kg / ha.

[0014] In another preferred embodiment, pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a dose of 1.6 to 6 kg / ha or 1.7 to 6 kg / ha, and the amount of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 200 l / ha.

[0015] In another preferred embodiment, pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a dose of 2 to 6 kg / ha, and the volume of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 200 l / ha.

[0016] In another preferred embodiment, pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a dose of 2.8 to 6 kg / ha or 3 to 6 kg / ha, and the amount of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 200 l / ha.

[0017] Also preferred is a method in which pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a rate of 1.6 to 6 kg / ha or 1.7 to 6 kg / ha, and the volume of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 400 l / ha.

[0018] More preferably, pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a dosage of 2 to 6 kg / ha, and the volume of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 400 l / ha.

[0019] In another preferred embodiment, pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a dose of 2.8 to 6 kg / ha or 3 to 6 kg / ha, and the volume of water of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 400 l / ha.

[0020] In one embodiment, the pyridyloxycarboxylic acid-auxin mimetic compound used in the method of the invention is selected from fluroxypyr, aminopyralid, triclopyr and clopyralid; preferably from fluroxypyr, aminopyralid and triclopyr. In another embodiment, fluroxypyr is formulated as 1-methylheptyl ester (fluroxypyr-meptyl) and applied to the habitat at a rate of 196-200 g / ha; aminopyralid is applied to the habitat at a rate of 48-50 g / ha; triclopyr is applied to the habitat at a rate of 120 g / ha, preferably 400-480 g / ha; clopyralid is applied to the habitat at a rate of 160 g / ha to 200 g / ha. In another embodiment, the dosages of aminopyralid and triclopyr are evaluated based on g ae (grams acid equivalent).

[0021] In another embodiment, the acetolactate synthase inhibitor used in the method of the present invention is selected from florasulam, flazasulfuron and prosulfuron, preferably from florasulam and prosulfuron. In one embodiment, florasulam is applied to the habitat at a rate of 4.9-50 g / ha, preferably 4-6 g / ha; flazasulfuron is applied to the habitat at a rate of 50 g / ha; and prosulfuron is applied to the habitat at a rate of 15-20 g / ha.

[0022] It is also preferred to use a carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitor selected from diflufenican in the method of the present invention. In another embodiment, diflufenican is applied to the locus at a dose of 75 g to 280 g / ha.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the benzoate-auxin mimetic used in the methods of the invention is selected from dicamba, hi another embodiment, the dicamba is applied to the locus of interest at a rate of 150-200 g / ha.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a method for controlling unwanted dicotyledonous plants in a habitat comprises applying to the habitat a dicotyledonous plant controlling amount of an aqueous spray composition comprising pelargonic acid and one or more of the following: fluroxypyr, aminopyralid, triclopyr, clopyralid, florasulam, flazasulfuron, prosulfuron, diflufenican and dicamba, preferably fluroxypyr-meptyl, aminopyralid, triclopyr, florasulam, prosulfuron, diflufenican and dicamba. and at least one selective herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of nican and dicamba; the amount of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 100 to 500 L / ha, preferably 200 to 400 L / ha; the pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a rate of 0.5 to 6 kg / ha; preferably 1.6 to 6 kg / ha; more preferably 1.7 to 6 kg / ha; it is also preferred that the pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a rate of 2.8 to 6 kg / ha or 3 to 6 kg / ha.

[0025] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a method for controlling unwanted dicotyledonous plants in a habitat comprises applying to the habitat a dicotyledonous plant-controlling amount of an aqueous spray composition comprising pelargonic acid and at least one selective herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of fluroxypyr, aminopyralid, triclopyr, clopyralid, florasulam, flazasulfuron and prosulfuron, preferably fluroxypyr-meptyl, aminopyralid, triclopyr, florasulam, prosulfuron, diflufenican and dicamba; the spray rate of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 100-500 l / ha, preferably 200-400 l / ha; and the pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat in a rate of 0.5-6 kg / ha; preferably 1.6-6 kg / ha; more preferably 1.7-6 kg / ha; more preferably 2.8-6 kg / ha. It is also preferred to apply pelargonic acid to the habitat at a rate of 2.8 to 6 kg / ha or 3 to 6 kg / ha.

[0026] It is also preferred that the method for controlling unwanted dicotyledonous plants in a habitat comprises applying to the habitat a dicotyledonous plant controlling amount of an aqueous spray composition, the composition comprising pelargonic acid and at least one selective herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of fluroxypyr and florasulam; the amount of the aqueous spray composition applied to the habitat is 100-500 l / ha, preferably 200-400 l / ha; and the pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a rate of 1.6-6 kg / ha; preferably 1.7-6 kg / ha; more preferably 2.8-6 kg / ha. It is also preferred that the pelargonic acid is applied to the habitat at a rate of 3-6 kg / ha.

[0027] The suitable weight ratio of pelargonic acid and at least one selective herbicidal compound is determined, for example, by the application rates described above for each compound. In the method according to the present invention, the application rate of pelargonic acid is reduced compared to the standard application rate of pelargonic acid for controlling weeds. In one embodiment, the mixing ratio of pelargonic acid (PA) and at least one selective herbicidal compound (SH) according to the present invention in the method according to the present invention is, for example: PA:SH is 2:1 to 1200:1; or 10:1 to 120:1. As described, other ratios will be clear to those skilled in the art based on the application rates described above and the concentrations of herbicides in suitable commercial formulations used to prepare the aqueous spray formulations used in the method according to the present invention.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the selective herbicide compound used in the aqueous spray composition comprises fluroxypyr. It is also preferred if the selective herbicide compound used in the aqueous spray composition comprises florasulam.

[0029] In another preferred embodiment, the selective herbicidal compound used in the aqueous spray composition comprises prosulfuron. It is also preferred that the selective herbicidal compound used in the aqueous spray composition comprises dicamba. It is also preferred that the selective herbicidal compound used in the aqueous spray composition comprises flazasulfuron.

[0030] In another preferred embodiment, the selective herbicide compound used in the aqueous spray composition comprises aminopyralid. It is also preferred if the selective herbicide compound used in the aqueous spray composition comprises triclopyr.

[0031] In one embodiment, the pelargonic acid is in a non-hydrolyzed form.

[0032] In another embodiment, the aqueous spray composition used in the method of the present invention comprises a mixture of pelargonic acid and at least one herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of pyridyloxycarboxylic acid-auxin mimics, acetolactate synthase inhibitors, carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitors and benzoate ester-auxin mimics. In a particular embodiment, when a mixture is used in the aqueous spray composition, a binary or ternary mixture of such herbicidal compounds is used. In a preferred embodiment, the aqueous spray composition used in the method of the present invention comprises pelargonic acid and a mixture of fluroxypyr and florasulam or a mixture of fluoroxypyr-meptyl and florasulam. In another preferred embodiment, the aqueous spray composition comprises pelargonic acid and a mixture of dicamba and prosulfuron or a mixture of prosulfuron, dicamba and diflufenican. In a further embodiment, the aqueous spray composition used in the method comprises a mixture of pelargonic acid and aminopyralid and triclopyr.

[0033] The term "habitat" refers to the location where an emergent dicotyledonous plant grows or is established. Thus, habitats relevant to the present invention will typically be non-cropped areas where vegetation management may be required, including amenity grasslands, footpaths, common facilities, roadsides, railroad tracks, highways, airports, associated rights-of-way, farm roads, fencerows, cleaning paths between soil-bound pots, facilities for storing or distributing products, bare fields and other infrastructure or industrial areas.

[0034] For example, infrastructure or industrial habitats may include manufacturing or processing facilities, mines, well sites, equipment yards and other energy production or resource extraction facilities or associated therewith, transmission lines, power plants, electric utilities (substations, switchyards, transmission lines and distribution lines), pipelines and pumping stations, and other soft or hard surfaces or areas where invasive dicotyledonous broadleaf weeds, brush, brambles, shrubs and woody weeds may occur. Although the habitats relevant to the present invention may also include other types of plants, weeds or vegetation, the present invention relates to methods for controlling unwanted dicotyledonous plants, including emerging, developing and established vegetation, in such habitats.

[0035] The term "herbicide" as used herein refers to a compound that is an active ingredient that inhibits or regulates plant growth. The term "dicotyledonous plant-controlling amount" refers to an amount of an aqueous spray composition that contains pelargonic acid and at least one selective herbicide compound or combination of such compounds selected from the group consisting of pyridyloxycarboxylic acid-auxin mimics, acetolactate synthase inhibitors, carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitors and benzoic acid ester-auxin mimics, that can produce an inhibiting or regulating effect on diquat plant growth. Preferably, the term "dicamyloid control amount" refers to an amount of an aqueous spray composition comprising pelargonic acid and at least one selective herbicide compound selected from the group consisting of fluroxypyr, aminopyralid, triclopyr, clopyralid, florasulam, flazasulfuron and prosulfuron; more preferably at least one selective herbicide compound selected from the group consisting of fluroxypyr-meptyl, aminopyralid, triclopyr, florasulam, prosulfuron, diflufenican and dicamba.

[0036] Inhibitory or regulating effects include any deviation from natural development, such as: death, growth retardation, leaf dieback, chlorosis, dwarfing, inhibition of emergence, etc. For example, diquat plants that do not die often become stunted, inhibited from flowering, and become uncompetitive. The term "plant" refers to any physical part of a plant, such as seeds, seedlings, saplings, roots, tubers, stems, stalks, leaves, and fruits.

[0037] The aqueous spray composition used in the method of the present invention can be prepared by mixing a pelargonic acid-containing composition with a composition containing at least one herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of pyridyloxycarboxylic acid-auxin mimics, acetolactate synthase inhibitors, carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitors and benzoic acid ester-auxin mimics, and optionally a suitable surfactant or adjuvant, immediately before application by the end user to the foliage of the unwanted dicotyledonous plants to be managed or controlled in the field. Such compositions are usually referred to as "tank mix" compositions. A suitable tank mix composition can be prepared by mixing commercially available compositions of active ingredients. Examples of suitable commercially available formulations include: Katoun® (an emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulation of pelargonic acid) (Belchim Crop Protection); HERBATAK ULTRA™ (an emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulation of pelargonic acid) (Evergreen Garden Care); Parsec® (a water dispersible granule (WG) formulation of prosulfuron and dicamba) (Syngenta); Hurricane® (a suspension concentrate (SC) of diflufenican) (Adama); Garlon® Ultra (an aqueous solution of aminopyralid and triclopyr) (Corteva); and Valentia™ (a suspoemulsion (SE) formulation of florasulam and fluroxypyr) (Barclay Chemicals).

[0038] Alternatively, the compositions used in the methods of the present invention can be provided to the end user already formulated to the desired dilution for application ("ready to use" compositions), or can be supplied in a pre-built concentrate form that requires dilution, dispersion or dissolution with water by the end user ("concentrate" compositions). Ready to use forms are particularly suited to the consumer market. Concentrate formulations can be used in consumer and professional markets alike. Such pre-formulated concentrates can be liquids or particulate solids.

[0039] The aqueous spray compositions useful in the present invention are generally formulated in various ways using formulation aids such as carriers, solvents and surfactants.The concentrate compositions can be in various physical forms, such as dusts, gels, wettable powders (dusts), wettable powder granules, water-dispersible tablets, effervescent pellets, emulsifiable concentrates, microemulsifiable concentrates, aqueous emulsions, oil-flowables, aqueous suspensions, oil suspensions, suspoemulsions, capsule suspensions, emulsifiable granules, soluble liquids, water-soluble concentrates (containing water or water-miscible organic solvents as carriers), impregnated polymer films or other forms known, for example, from Manual on Development and Use of FAO and WHO Specifications for Pesticides, United Nations, First Edition, Second Revision (2010).As indicated above, such compositions can be used directly or diluted before use by tank mixing.Dilution can be carried out, for example, with water, liquid fertilizers, micronutrients, biological organisms, oils or solvents.

[0040] Aqueous spray compositions can be prepared by mixing pelargonic acid and at least one non-selective herbicide (the "active ingredient") together with formulation auxiliaries to obtain a composition in the form of a finely divided solid, granule, solution, dispersion, emulsion, microemulsion or suspoemulsion. The active ingredient can also be formulated with other auxiliaries such as finely divided solids, mineral oils, oils of vegetable or animal origin, modified oils of vegetable or animal origin, organic solvents, water, surfactants or combinations thereof.

[0041] The active ingredient can also be contained in fine microcapsules. Microcapsules contain the active ingredient in a porous carrier. This allows the active ingredient to be released into the environment in controlled amounts (e.g., sustained release). Microcapsules usually have a diameter of 0.1 to 500 microns. The microcapsules contain the active ingredient in an amount of about 25 to 95% by weight of the capsule weight. The active ingredient can be in the form of a monolithic solid, in the form of fine particles in a solid or liquid dispersion, or in the form of a suitable solution. The encapsulating membrane can include, for example, natural or synthetic rubber, cellulose, styrene / butadiene copolymer, polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylate, polyester, polyamide, polyurea, polyurethane or chemically modified polymers and starch xanthate or other polymers known to those skilled in the art. Alternatively, fine microcapsules can be formed in which the active ingredient is contained in the form of finely divided particles in a solid matrix of the substrate, but the microcapsules themselves are not encapsulated.

[0042] Formulation auxiliaries suitable for the preparation of the aqueous spray composition used in the method of the present invention are known per se. Liquid carriers include water, toluene, xylene, petroleum ether, vegetable oils, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, cyclohexanone, acid anhydrides, acetonitrile, acetophenone, amyl acetate, 2-butanone, butylene carbonate, chlorobenzene, cyclohexane, cyclohexanol, alkyl esters of acetic acid, diacetone alcohol, 1,2-dichloropropane, diethanolamine, p-diethylbenzene, diethylene glycol, diethylene glycol abietate, diethylene glycol butyl ether, diethylene glycol ethyl ether, diethylene glycol methyl ether, N,N-dimethylformamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, 1,4-dioxane, dipropylene glycol, dipropylene glycol methyl ether, dipropylene glycol dibenzoate, diproxitol, alkyl pyrrolidone, ethyl acetate, 2-ethylhexanol, ethylene carbonate, 1,1,1-Trichloroethane, 2-Heptanone, alpha-pinene, d-limonene, ethyl lactate, ethylene glycol, ethylene glycol butyl ether, ethylene glycol methyl ether, gamma-butyrolactone, glycerol, glycerol acetate, glycerol diacetate, glycerol triacetate, hexadecane, hexylene glycol, isoamyl acetate, isobornyl acetate, isooctane, isophorone, isopropylbenzene, isopropyl myristate, lactic acid, laurylamine, mesityl oxide, methoxypropanol, methyl isoamyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, methyl laurate, methyl octanoate, methyl oleate, methylene chloride, m-xylene, n-hexane, n-octylamine, octadecanoic acid, octylamine acetate, oleic acid, Oleylamine, o-xylene, phenol, polyethylene glycol, propionic acid, propyl lactate, propylene carbonate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol methyl ether, p-xylene, toluene, triethyl phosphate, triethylene glycol, xylene sulfonic acid, paraffin, mineral oil, trichloroethylene, perchloroethylene, ethyl acetate, amyl acetate, butyl acetate, propylene glycol methyl ether, diethylene glycol methyl ether, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol and higher alcohols such as amyl alcohol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, hexanol, octanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, etc. may be used.

[0043] Suitable solid carriers are, for example, talc, titanium dioxide, pyrophyllite clay, silica, attapulgite clay, diatomaceous earth, limestone, calcium carbonate, bentonite, calcium montmorillonite, cottonseed hulls, wheat flour, soybean flour, pumice, wood flour, ground walnut shells, lignin and similar materials.

[0044] Many surface-active substances can be used advantageously in both solid and liquid formulations, especially in formulations which may be diluted with a carrier before use. The surface-active substances can be anionic, cationic, nonionic or polymeric and can be used as emulsifying agents, wetting agents or suspending agents, or for other purposes. Typical surface-active substances include, for example, salts of alkyl sulfates, such as diethanolammonium lauryl sulfate; salts of alkylaryl sulfonic acids, such as calcium dodecylbenzene sulfonate; alkylphenol / alkylene oxide adducts, such as nonylphenol ethoxylate; alcohol / alkylene oxide adducts, such as tridecyl alcohol ethoxylate; soaps, such as sodium stearate; salts of alkylnaphthalene sulfonic acids, such as sodium dibutylnaphthalene sulfonate; dialkyl esters of sulfosuccinates, such as sodium di(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate; sorbitol esters, such as sorbitol oleate; quaternary amines, such as lauryltrimethylammonium chloride, polyethylene glycol esters of fatty acids, such as polyethylene glycol stearate; block copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide; and salts of mono- and di-alkyl phosphate esters, such as those described in, for example, McCutcheon's Detergents and Emulsifiers Annual, MC Publishing Corp., Ridgewood New York, 1989. Also included are further substances described in Jersey (1981).

[0045] Further auxiliaries which can be used in the agrochemical formulations include crystallization inhibitors, viscosity modifiers, suspending agents, dyes, antioxidants, foaming agents, light absorbers, mixing aids, defoamers, complexing agents, neutralizing or pH adjusting substances and buffers, corrosion inhibitors, fragrances, wetting agents, absorption enhancers, micronutrients, plasticizers, flow regulators, lubricants, dispersants, thickeners, antifreeze agents, fungicides and liquid and solid fertilizers.

[0046] The composition according to the invention may contain an additive comprising an oil of vegetable or animal origin, a mineral oil, an alkyl ester of such oil or a mixture of such oils and oil derivatives. The amount of oil additive in the composition according to the invention is generally 0.01-10% based on the mixture to be applied. For example, the oil additive can be added to the spray tank in the desired concentration after the spray mixture is prepared. Preferred oil additives include mineral oil or oil of vegetable origin (e.g. rapeseed oil, olive oil or sunflower oil), emulsified vegetable oil, alkyl ester of oil of vegetable origin (e.g. methyl derivatives) or oil of animal origin (e.g. fish oil or beef tallow, etc.). Preferred oil additives are C8-C 22 Alkyl esters of fatty acids, especially C 12 ~C 18 Methyl derivatives of fatty acids, such as the methyl esters of lauric acid, palmitic acid, and oleic acid (methyl laurate, methyl palmitate, and methyl oleate, respectively). Compendium of Herbicide Adjuvants, 10 th A large number of oil derivatives are known from the Journal of Chemical Engineering, Vol. 13, No. 1, 2010, Issue 1, Springer-Verlag, 2010.

[0047] Compositions useful in the method of the invention generally contain 0.1 to 99% by weight, especially 0.1 to 95% by weight, of active ingredient and 1 to 99.9% by weight of formulation adjuvants, preferably including 0 to 25% by weight of surfactant. Commercial products used in tank mixes are preferably formulated as concentrates, but aqueous spray compositions applied by end users will usually use dilute formulations.

[0048] The aqueous spray composition used in the method is applied by post-emergence application of an aqueous spray solution, which is achieved by conventional methods (flooding, spraying, misting), such as post-emergence application of an aqueous foliage spray solution. The term "post-emergence" in the context of the present invention is intended to mean that the spray composition is applied after the target dicotyledonous plant emerges from the habitat. The target dicotyledonous plant after emergence will include growing plants and established plants. The pelargonic acid and at least one herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of pyridyloxycarboxylic acid-auxin mimics, acetolactate synthase inhibitors, carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitors and benzoic acid ester-auxin mimics can be applied simultaneously or sequentially (in any order) to the habitat. In this example, the components are usually applied within 3 days of each other, most preferably within 24 hours. Suitably, all components are applied within a period of a few hours, for example, 1 hour. Alternatively, preferably the individual components are applied to the locus simultaneously as a single aqueous spray herbicidal composition by aqueous spray application. When the components are applied simultaneously, they can be applied separately, or as a tank mix, or as a preformulated mixture of all the components, or as a preformulated mixture of some of the components that are subsequently tank mixed with the remaining components.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the method for controlling unwanted dicotyledonous plants in a habitat comprises applying a dicotyledonous plant-controlling amount of the aqueous spray composition to the foliage of unwanted dicotyledonous plants growing after emergence or established in the habitat. The method of the present invention is also useful for spot treating dicotyledonous weeds growing in the habitat or clearing out any dicotyledonous vegetation in the habitat.

[0050] In one embodiment for a particular habitat, the method of the invention can be practiced with an application schedule that includes four spray applications spaced 7 days apart between the first and second applications and 60 days apart between the third and fourth applications. In another embodiment, the method of the invention can be practiced with an application schedule that includes one spray application per season to control post-emergence dicotyledonous weeds.

[0051] In another embodiment, the season for post-emergence dicotyledonous weed control using the methods of the invention spans the period from spring to early fall, with a 10 month buffer between application schedules. For example, in the UTC+01:00 time zone, the season for post-emergence dicotyledonous weed control using the methods of the invention spans March / April to August / September, with a 10 month buffer between application schedules.

[0052] The method of the present invention can be used against many unwanted dicotyledonous plants, including broadleaf weeds, bushes, brambles, shrubs and woody weeds. Preferably, the method of the present invention can be used against unwanted dicotyledonous plants, including brambles, thistles and woody weeds. More preferably, the method of the present invention can be used against unwanted dicotyledonous plants, including brambles and woody weeds.

[0053] As examples of unwanted dicotyledonous plants to be managed or controlled by the method of the present invention, there are the following: Abutilon, Achillea, Amaranthus, Ambrosia, Anthemis, Bellis, Carduus, Cassia, Centaurea, Chenopodium, Cirsium, Genus: Convolvulus, Datura, Emex, Epilobium, Erigeron, Galeopsis, Galinsoga, Galium, Ipomoea, Lamium, Lepidium, Lindernia, Miya Lotus, Matricaria, Papaver, Plantago, Polygonum, Portulaca, Prunus, Quercus, Ranunculus, Rorippa, Rotala, Rubus, Rumex, Scabiosa, Examples include those from the genera Senecio, Sesbania, Sinapis, Solanum, Sonchus, Sphenoclea, Stellaria, Taraxacum, Trifolium, Urtica, Veronica, Viola, and Xanthium.

[0054] Specific dicotyledonous plants include, for example, Scabiosa columbaria, Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum officinale, Rubus fructicosu, Senecio inaequidens, Erigeron canadensis, Bellis perennis, and Prunus spinosa.

[0055] Controlling means killing, damaging or inhibiting the growth of dicotyledonous plants, including forbaceous weeds, bushes, brambles, shrubs and woody weeds. In one embodiment, the term "habitat" is intended to include soil, seeds and seedlings as well as established vegetation.

[0056] Various aspects and embodiments of the invention will now be described in further detail by way of example. It will be appreciated that modifications of detail may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. EXAMPLES

[0057] Examples 1 to 3 Field trials were conducted to evaluate the response of the dicotyledonous weeds Plantago lanceolata (PLALA), Taraxacum officinale (TAROF) and Scabiosa columbaria (SCBCO) to the following herbicidal treatments:

[0058] [Table 1]

[0059] The tests were carried out on growing weeds. Post-emergence applications were carried out using an ETC type sprayer (jet sprayer) equipped with a spray boom and flat nozzle. The volume of solution applied per hectare was 200 L / ha. Frequency of evaluation: At T0, the weed coverage or number of weeds in each elementary plot was evaluated, respectively, to determine the overall coverage. Visual evaluation of efficacy and overall coverage for each weed in each elementary plot was carried out at days after treatment (DAT) T+1, T+3, T+7, T+14, T+21 and T+28.

[0060] [Table 2]

[0061] [Table 3]

[0062] [Table 4]

[0063] [Table 5]

[0064] Examples 4 to 7

[0065] [Table 6]

[0066] [Table 7]

[0067] For blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), coverage was assessed on DAT0.

[0068] All foliar applications were applied using a Cooper Pegler pressurized backpack sprayer equipped with a flat fan nozzle for application. All spray equipment was fully calibrated prior to use.

[0069] Each treatment consisted of four replicates, with the area of ​​each replicate being 10 m 2 The plots were arranged in a randomized block design (2m × 5m).

[0070] Assessment of raspberry (Rubus fruticosus) coverage was performed prior to the first application. During the trial, % coverage and percentage control of raspberry (Rubus fruticosus) were assessed a total of six times: 0 DAA, 6 DAA, 11 DAA, 28 DAA, 62 DAA, and 91 DAA.

[0071] All statistical analyses were performed using ARM (version 21.5). One-way ANOVA was performed for percent cover and percent visual suppression for each weed species and for all weeds at each evaluation period. Means were differentiated using the Student-Newman-Keuls comparison test when appropriate, and these are presented as letter tests; treatments with no common letters are significantly different. For all analyses, the probability that no significant difference occurs between treatments was calculated as the F probability value (p(F)). All tests were performed with 95% confidence intervals. Residuals were tested for normality and showed a normal distribution with P>0.05.

[0072] [Table 8]

[0073] [Table 9] JPEG2025501193000010.jpg23166

[0074]

Table 10

[0075]

Table 11

[0076]

Table 12

[0077]

Table 13

[0078] As can be seen from Examples 5-6, when targeting Rubus fruticosus (raspberry), Herbatak Ultra (pelargonic acid) (both at 5L / ha and 10L / ha) acts favorably on herbicides, especially improving the performance of Valentia and Parsec+Hurricane, and the coverage of Rubus fruticosius is reduced compared to the herbicides applied alone, demonstrating improved efficacy. Herbatak Ultra (pelargonic acid) was also able to improve the coverage (%) score of Garlon Ultra on rubus (Rubus fruticosus) (which can be explained by the visible damage to the weed). In Examples 7-8, Herbatak Ultra (pelargonic acid) improved the performance of Parsec+Hurricane, Valentia and Garlon Ultra at both application rates, especially with a higher % control score against Rubus fruticosus (raspberry) after 28 DAA. This result indicates that the method of the present invention provides improved control of dicotyledonous weeds, including raspberry and woody weeds.

Claims

1. A method for controlling dicotyledonous weeds in a habitat containing weeds, comprising applying to the habitat an aqueous spray composition containing pelargonic acid and a second herbicide selected from fluroxypyr, aminopyralid, triclopyr, florasulam, flazasulfuron and prosulfuron in a dicotyledonous weed-controlling amount; the spray volume of the aqueous spray composition is 100 to 500 L / ha, and the pelargonic acid is applied at a rate of 0.5 to 6 kg / ha.

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the second herbicide is selected from fluroxypyr, aminopyralid, triclopyr, florasulam, and prosulfuron.

3. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the fluroxypyr is applied at a rate of 196 to 200 g / ha.

4. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the florasulam is applied at a rate of 4 to 6 g / ha.

5. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the aminopyralid is applied at a rate of 48 to 50 g / ha.

6. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the prosulfuron is applied at a rate of 15 to 20 g / ha.

7. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the triclopyr is applied at a rate of 400 to 480 g / ha.

8. 3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second herbicide is a mixture of fluroxypyr and florasulam.

9. 3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second herbicide is a mixture of prosulfuron, dicamba, and diflufenican.

10. 3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second herbicide is a mixture of aminopyralid and triclopyr.

11. 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the fluroxypyr is applied at a rate of 196-200 g / ha and the florasulam is applied at a rate of 4-6 g / ha; preferably, fluroxypyr is applied at a rate of 196 g / ha and flurasulam is applied at a rate of 4.9 g / ha.

12. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the aminopyralid is applied at a rate of 48 to 50 g / ha and the triclopyr is applied at a rate of 400 to 480 g / ha.

13. 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pelargonic acid is applied at a rate of 1.6 to 6 kg / ha; preferably at a rate of 2 to 6 kg / ha.

14. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spray volume of the aqueous spray composition is 200 to 400 l / ha.

15. 15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the spray volume of the aqueous spray composition is 200 l / ha.

16. 15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the spray volume of the aqueous spray composition is 400 l / ha.

17. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the dicotyledonous weeds to be controlled are selected from Scabiosa columbaria, Plantago lanceolata, Taraxacum officinale, Rubus fructicosus, Senecio inaequidens, Erigeron canadensis, Bellis perennis and Prunus spinosa.