Influence of soil type and water content on release of triticonazole from coated maize seed

The release of [14C]triticonazole from coated maize seeds into soil, and its incorporation in maize, were studied under laboratory conditions over seven days in two soils at two different water contents (equivalent to a matrix potential of −3 kPa and −1580 kPa). The behaviour of a commercial coating formulation was compared to that of the same formulation supplemented with a pellicle to improve coated seed handling. Triticonazole released into soil, remaining in the integument and incorporated in different parts of the plant (stem, root, albumen) was measured. The triticonazole released into the soil corresponded to 25% of the initial applied amount on the seed under the best conditions (sandy soil, matrix potential of −3 kPa, set without pellicle). In these conditions, 13% of applied triticonazole was incorporated into roots and stems after seven days. The presence of an additional pellicle to improve the coating decreased the quantity of triticonazole released into soil and consequently the quantity of triticonazole incorporated into the plant. In all cases, the diffusion of triticonazole from the seed to the soil was not limited by the water solubility of triticonazole. Instead, the sorption of triticonazole on soil appears to be the key process governing its fate in soil. © 2000 Society of Chemical Industry