Effects of 2,4-D-Nutrient Dusts on the Growth and Yield of Beans and Sugar Beets

Wort, D. J.

Effects of 2,4-D-Nutrient Dusts on the Growth and Yield of Beans and Sugar Beets

1966

Wort, D. J.

Clay dusts containing 2,4-D or 2,4-dibromophenoxyacetic acid with a complex of micronutrients, or 2,4-D alone in some instances, were applied to the foliage of varieties of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and to sugar beet (Beta saccharifera) seedlings. Treatment of the bean plants when 14 days old with dusts containing 0.1% 2,4-D with minerals, at 12 pounds per acre resulted in significant (P = .05) increases in growth (11.6% to 13.9%), in yield of pods (23% to 40%), and in production of seed (16% to 20%). KBr in the hormone-nutrient dusts further increased the yield of seed. Dusts containing 0.5, 1.0, or 2.5% 2,4-D, applied at 6 or 12 pounds per acre, repetition of application of all dusts, or application to bean plants older than 2 weeks were either nonadvantageous or depressed yield. The largest increase in root production by sugar beet plants, 44%, was obtained by the application of a composite dust containing 0.1% 2,4-D to the foliage of 1-month-old seedlings. The incorporation of microelements with the 2,4-D augmented the stimulatory action of the hormone and widened the concentration range of 2,4-D which could be applied to the plants to increase yield.

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