CLETHODIM DEGRADATION

Research conducted by Synergy Consulting and Roberto Busi, has shown that Clethodim can significantly degrade during storage. This could potentially have a negative impact on ryegrass control in broadleaf crops, due to growers’ reliance on this herbicide. In certain circumstances, this phenomenon may explain unexpected Clethodim failures.

The degradation of the Clethodim used in this research occurred under laboratory conditions, under more favourable conditions than those found on-farm. Growers should be aware of this when ordering Clethodim for in-crop spraying. It would be advisable to only purchase what is required for the upcoming season, to minimise any carryover product. Also the date of manufacture should be checked to ensure the freshest product available is being used. For those who have Clethodim caried over from previous seasons, it would be prudent to utilise these on legume crops where higher label rates can be used to account for the loss of active ingredient. Additional Clethodim above that recommended on canola crops should not be applied due to crop safety concerns.