Weed Control in Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L). Moench] in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L). Moench) is a highly valued vegetable and grown for fresh market in the US Virgin Islands. Weed competition is an important factor affecting vegetable production. A study was conducted to evaluate preemergence application of two herbicides Preen Plus (Trifluralin) and Scythe (Pelargonic acid) on weed control in okra. Two cultivars of okra ca. ‘Clemsen Spineless’, and ‘Red Burgundy’ were grown in conventional management system at the Agricultural Experiment Station University of the Virgin Islands, Kingshill. The experimental design was complete randomize block and three replication (treated) and a control (weedy) for each cultivar. Preen Plus applied at a rate of (2 oz. /10 sq. ft., granular) a day prior to transplanting okra plants into the field and Scythe sprayed at the rate of 5% volume with water. No emergence of weeds was observed in treated plots within the first two to three weeks after application. Plants recovered from initial injury a few weeks after transplanting. Marketable yields were higher in ‘Clemsen Spineless’ (10,615 lb/acre) and ‘Red Burgundy’ (12,641 lb/acre) plots sprayed with Preen Plus in than in plots sprayed with Scythe where lower yield in ‘Clemsen Spineless’ (10,582 lb/acre) and ‘Red Burgundy’ (9,167 lb/acre) recorded. Significant difference in yield of `Clemsen Spineless’ recorded in Preen Plus sprayed and non-treated plots (control). Results on marketable fruit weight, marketable yield, pod size, and weed composition are presented. Two herbicides controlled a range of broadleaf and grasses in okra field.

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