TITLE:
Flaming Dormant Alfalfa for Pest Control
AUTHORS:
Joseph L. Moyer, R. J. Whitworth, H. Davis
KEYWORDS:
Weevil; Hypera; Weed Control; Burning
JOURNAL NAME:
American Journal of Plant Sciences,
Vol.5 No.7,
March
25,
2014
ABSTRACT:
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa Leyss) is an important forage
crop whose production is hampered by pests, including the alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica Gyllenhal) which is a major problem in many areas. Flaming during
dormancy could be an alternative control measure. Late fall and early spring
flaming at three intensities were compared with pesticide and no treatment for
their effects on alfalfa weevil damage and weed density. In four site-years, flaming at high intensity generally reduced
weevil damage to alfalfa. When winter annual broadleaf weeds were prevalent,
flaming decreased their density. When fall and spring flaming effects were
different, spring flaming gave better results.