Cotton weed control research has been very exciting for the past several years. Finally we have the technologies to control weeds with over-the-top herbicide applications. In the past, when no height difference was established for post-directed herbicide applications, only Cotoran at 0.5 lb ai/A plus a surfactant was available. Broadleaf control, primarily morningglories, was marginal at best with this treatment. In addition over-the-top applications of Cotoran caused moderate to severe cotton injury in many instances.

Roundup Ready, BXN and Staple all fill the immediate need for safe over-the-top broadleaf weed control. We have evaluated the Roundup Ready system for only one year. We have tested the BXN system for five years and Staple for seven years. Therefore, most of this discussion will deal with the BXN system and Staple.