A series of experiments were conducted from 1983 through 1986 to determine the efficacy of encapsulated starch formulations of trifluralin [2,6-dinitro-N,N-dipropyl-4-(trifluoromethyl)benzenamine] in conventional and no-till soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] production. The encapsulated starch formulations remaining on the soil surface were significantly more effective than the emulsifiable concentrate when applied in February, March, or April. Encapsulated trifluralin products prepared by both the starch xanthate and starch borate processes were as effective as the emulsifiable concentrate even when used in conventional-tillage systems for weed control and for maintaining soybean yields. Our data indicate that an effective and economical herbicide such as trifluralin need not be lost in no-till soybean production if new controlled-release formulation technology is used by the agricultural industry.
