Reduction of Silica and Increase in Tillering Induced inAgropyron repensby Glyphosate

Abstract

Sub-lethal doses of the herbicide glyphosate (N-phosphonomethyl glycine) applied to the foliage of Agropyron repens L. (Beauv.) reduced the silica content of leaves that developed subsequently by approximately 50 per cent. The herbicide did not affect epicuticular wax deposition while shoot number and fresh weight were significantly greater than those of control plants. The results are discussed in relation to subsequent pesticide application and to palatability.