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  Sesame agronomy post-emergence herbicide trials quantity

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Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the oldest recorded oilseed crops. Sesame is cultivated for its edible seeds, eaten as they are or added as an ingredient in meals, and for its oil that is used in cooking. Its antioxidant content, among other benefits, also means it is used in nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.

The global sesame industry is estimated to be worth US$2.2 billion, with six million metric tonnes (mmt) produced, and 2.5 mmt traded annually. Demand for sesame continues to grow, with the introduction of new non-shattering varieties providing opportunities for Australian farmers to utilise this high-value, drought-tolerant crop in their farming systems.

Weeds are a major limitation in sesame production worldwide and herbicides can be utilised for in-crop weed control. Controlling broadleaf weeds in sesame crops is a major challenge. There are currently no herbicides registered for use in sesame in Australia, and limited information is available on which herbicides are safe for post-emergence control of broadleaf weeds in sesame.

This research aimed to identify post-emergence herbicides safe for use in sesame production in Australia for controlling broadleaf weeds. The research (pot experiments) found that Lontrel® (clopyralid) and Brodal® (diflufenican), applied either alone or in a mixture, are potentially safe herbicides for use in Australian sesame production.

Further evaluation is required across several field environments to assess the safety of these herbicides on a range of sesame cultivars. This needs to occur with a view to obtain and provide data for herbicide permits and registration with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) and chemical companies.