Selective Control of Plains Pricklypear in Rangeland with Herbicides

Experiments were conducted at Crawford and Kimball, Nebraska, during 1962, 1963, 1964, and 1965 to determine the effect of 13 herbicides on plains pricklypear (Opuntia polyacantha Haw.). The best control was obtained with 2-(2,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)propionic acid (silvex), 4-amino-3,5,6-trichloropicolinic acid (picloram), 3,6-dichloro-o-anisic acid (dicamba), and (2,4,5-trichlorophenoxy) acetic acid (2,4,5-T). Silvex and picloram were superior to dicamba and 2,4,5-T in controlling plains pricklypear, but picloram and dicamba injured the native grasses. Rotary hoeing plains pricklypear cladodes just prior to spraying improved herbicide performance. Simulated railing was not a consistent control measure. Evaluation of plains pricklypear control was made 1 and 2 years after herbicide application.