Weed Control

Suggestions for weed managment in okra include use of the Stale Seedbed Technique, use of plasticulture, and trifluralin (Treflan). Both glyphosate (Roundup) and pelargonic acid (Scythe) are registered for stale seedbed use. Flaming can also be used. Stale seed beds can be used between plastic mulch (be careful with flaming as it melts the plastic). Some handweeding may be needed in the planting holes as okra grows slowly at first after transplanting, simliar to peppers. Apply the plastic at least two to three weeks prior to planting and kill the weeds between the mulch prior to setting the okra plants on the plastic. Plasticulture is preferred for okra since it is such a warm season crop. Trifluralin (Treflan) is also registered for weed control. Since it must be incorporated, however, it is not feasible to incorporate it between the plastic. On bare ground culture, incorporate Treflan two to three weeks prior to transplanting. Use Roundup, flaming, or Scythe prior to transplanting (stale bed). After transplanting, keep cultivations shallow to protect crop roots.

NOTE:  For the herbicides listed below, one product trade name and formulation is provided for each active ingredient (common name) as an example of rates, days to harvest (dh), REI, and special instructions. In many cases there are other products available with the same active ingredient. Please see Table 17 and Alphabetical Listing by Trade Name for more information on products with the same active ingredients.