Simulated drift of 2,4-D and dicamba in pecan (Carya illinoinensis K. Koch) and olive trees (Olea europaea L.)

The cultivation of pecan (Carya illinoinensis K. Koch) and olive trees (Olea europaea L.) near pasture and grain cultivation areas in southern Brazil has caused herbicide drift problems. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the phytotoxic effects of herbicides 2,4-D and dicamba on the growth of pecan and olive tree seedlings. A total of 8 underdoses were used, as follows: 0, 1.56, 3.125, 6.25, 12.0, 25.0, 50.0, and 100% of the recommended doses of herbicides 2,4-D (670 g a.e ha−1) and dicamba (720 g a.e ha−1) for burndown. The applications were carried out in 80 cm-high seedlings with the aid of a CO2 pressurized sprayer with a spray solution volume of 150 L. ha−1. The analyzed variables were phytotoxicity at 7, 14, 21, 30 and 60 days after spray (DAA) and plant height and stem diameter at 30 and 60 DAA. The drift of hormonal herbicides caused damage to the growth of pecan and olive trees, decreasing their stem diameter and height, with the herbicide dicamba showing the greatest damage. In addition, doses above 12.5% of both herbicides resulted in phytotoxicity levels greater than 60%, and doses of 50 and 100% were responsible for leaf senescence.