Comparison of two methods of PCNB application for control of Rhizoctonia infection of potatoes

A broadcast application of PCNB (Terraclor) resulted in a reasonably uniform distribution of the chemical in the soil with the concentration decreasing in a linear fashion with increasing depth in the soil profile. A banded application resuluted in a considerably higher chemical concentration at the 4–6 inch depth than at the 0–2 or the 2–4 inch depths. The problem of the lack of uniformity of chemical distribution could probably be solved by altering nozzle placement and size and allow use of the band method of application to minimize grower cost. More complete disking in the case of the broadcast treatment would probably result in a relatively uniform distribution of the chemical but at higher cost to the grower. PCNB application rates of 10, 15 and 25 lbs per acre broadcast and 71/2, 10 and 121/2 lbs per acre in a band significantly reduced the severity ofRhizoctonia infection of Russet Burbank potatoes but did not increase potato yields significantly.