Effect of Herbicides on the Management of the Invasive Weed Solanum rostratum Dunal (Solanaceae)

Solanum rostratum Dunal is an invasive weed species that invaded Israel in the 1950s. The weed appears in several germination flashes, from early spring until late summer. Recently, an increase in its distribution range was observed, alongside the identification of new populations in the northern part of Israel. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of herbicide application for the control of S. rostratum using two field populations originated from the Golan Heights and the Jezreel Valley. While minor differences in herbicide efficacy were recorded between populations, plant growth stage had a significant effect on herbicide response. Carfentrazone-ethyl was found to be highly effective in controlling plants at both early and late growth stages. Metribuzin, oxadiazon, oxyfluorfen and tembutrione showed reduced efficacy when applied at later growth stage (8-9 cm height), as compared to the application at an early growth stage (4-5 cm height). Tank mixes of oxadiazon and oxyfluorfen with different concentrations of surfactant improved later growth stage plant control. Taken together, our study highlights several herbicides that can improve weed control and may be used as chemical solutions alongside diversified crop rotation options. Thus, they may aid in preventing the spread and further buildup of S. rostratum field populations.

Automated summary

Solanum rostratum Dunal, an invasive weed species in Israel, has seen an increase in distribution range and new populations discovered recently. The study found that Carfentrazone-ethyl is highly effective in controlling the weed at different growth stages, while some herbicides like Metribuzin and oxadiazon show reduced efficacy at later growth stages. Tank mixes with surfactants can improve control of later growth stage plants. These herbicides can aid in preventing further spread and buildup of S. rostratum field populations.