This study aimed to evaluate oxyfluorfen and sulfentrazone selectivity and weed control in young coffee plantations (Coffea arabica cv. Red Catuaí). Three trials were conducted in a randomized complete block design, with 10 treatments and four replicates. In the first and second trials, at 30 and 90 days after transplanting (DAT), respectively, two doses of oxyfluorfen (0.36 and 0.72 kg a.i. ha-1) and sulfentrazone (0.4 and 0.6 kg a.i. ha-1) were tested by spraying the herbicides directly into soil (with seedling protection) or onto the total area. The same herbicides and doses were used in the third trial, but at 300 DAT and only directed to the soil, using two sprayer nozzles with different drift potentials being tested. Two additional control plots were added: hand-weeding control and weedy treatments. Weeds present in the inter-row spaces were eliminated by mowing operations. Weeds and their densities were identified. The toxicity of the herbicides to the coffee plants and its effectiveness in controlling the weeds were assessed. The main weed occurring in the experimental area was Brachiaria decumbens. Visual symptoms of herbicide toxicity were observed only when the herbicides were applied in the entire area (trials 1 and 2), regardless of their doses and application times. At the third herbicide application trial, no visual symptoms of herbicide toxicity and no reductions in plant growth were observed, regardless of the herbicide, the dose and the sprayer nozzles tested. At all times, a very good weed control percentage was obtained, but selectivity occurred only when the herbicides were not applied onto the total area.
application technology; Brachiaria decumbens; Coffea arabica; herbicides; integrated weed management
