Published online by Cambridge University Press: 12 June 2017
Simulated rainfall at 0.1, 0.5, and 2.0 in applied to six crops in the field previously treated with 1.5 lb/A of the dimethylamine salt of 4-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)butyric acid (2,4-DB) resulted in an average herbicidal loss from the forage of 21, 60, and 93%, respectively. One inch of rain removed an average of 80% of 2,4-DB applied at 0.5, 1.5, and 2.0 lb/A to birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.). Loss of the herbicide was attributed to the dissolving of herbicide in water and subsequent runoff from leaf surfaces, and an acceleration of herbicidal decomposition in the plant. Light interception decreased the rate of 2,4-DB breakdown in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) but was not considered to be of practical importance.