Desiccation demonstration study of lentils

Application timing, regardless of the desiccant used, was the most important factor in achieving a successful lentil harvest. Desiccants applied at the optimal time resulted in an 11% yield gain and a 4.8% increase in seed weight compared with early application timings. Applying desiccants early resulted in lower yields as the crop was not fully mature at application, resulting in smaller, shrivelled seed.

Reglone Ion and Heat LQ with glyphosate provided the fastest dry down and lowest plant moisture at harvest. Glyphosate, when used alone, was the slowest and least effective method to dry down lentils when applied at either the early or optimal time.

Environmental conditions also played an important role in desiccant selection. Overall dry down was slower than previous years due to the cool, wet conditions throughout the fall.