The effectiveness of activated charcoal in protecting seedling cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L. ‘Stoneville 213’) from diuron [3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea] at 1.78 and 3.55 kg/ha was investigated under field conditions over a 5-yr period. Charcoal did not provide adequate protection when applied through the seed hopper box or sprayed in the seed furrow over each hill. Charcoal at 83 and 167 kg/ha applied as a spot over each hill of cotton gave adequate protection. Shallow incorporation of the charcoal significantly reduced the degree of protection. The optimum combination, providing maximum weed control and minimum crop injury, was diuron at 3.55 kg/ha applied over non-incorporated charcoal at 83 kg/ha.
