The control of weeds with glufosinate-ammonium in genetically modified crops of forage maize in the UK

摘要

Trials carried out since 1995 in UK have shown that glufosinate-ammonium, as Liberty R (proposed tradename), can achieve high levels of control of both grass and broad-leaved weeds in forage maize, which has been genetically modified to be tolerant to this herbicide. Results with a two-spray, post- emergence programme compare very favourably to conventional herbicide programmes, normally based on atrazine, applied pre-emergence. This technology can provide an opportunity to treat weeds later, thus removing the need to treat with 'insurance treatments'. This has a number of potential environmental benefits and provides a more flexible approach for the farmer. It also means that species resistant to atrazine are controlled. Some other benefits of genetically modified crops are also discussed.