Understanding the Fate and Persistence of Herbicides in Soils

Abstract

Chemical weed control, using herbicides to manage weeds, is an important production practice in citrus groves. Herbicides applied in groves can end up in the soils when the spray hits the soil surface or when herbicides or their metabolite (degradation products) are released from decomposing weed tissues. Subsequently, their fate and persistence in citrus groves are determined by processes such as soil binding, leaching, and degradation. Understanding these processes helps growers in selecting an effective chemical weed management strategy while minimizing the impacts on the crop and environment.

Peer reviewed through UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center; published in Citrus Industry Magazine.