The use of herbicides with controlled release formulations may constitute important tool to reduce leaching problems and increase the efficacy of atrazine in soil. The aim of this study was to compare the efficiency of control of Urochloa plantaginea (UROPL) and corn grain yield from a commercial formulation (WG) of atrazine and a controlled-release formulation (xerogel). The design was randomized blocks in split plots with four replications in a scheme (2x7)+1. Factor A consisted of the formulations of atrazine (WG and xerogel), factor B concentrations of herbicide (0, 2400, 3200, 3600, 4200, 5400 and 8000ha atrazine g-1). Variables assessed consisted of control levels, plant density of UROPL and corn grain yield. The increasing levels of atrazine resulted in increased levels of control UROPL. In assessments made at 28 and 35 days after application, atrazine xerogel showed higher agronomic efficiency than the WG formulation. There were no differences in corn grain yield from plots treated with different formulations and atrazine levels.
Zea mays; chemical control; soil herbicide; xerogel
