Persistence of GR7 and <i>Striga</i> germination stimulant(s) from <i>Euphorbia aegyptiaca</i> Boiss. in soils and in solutions

Abstract

Summary The activity of GR7 and Striga germination stimulant(s) from Euphorbia aegyptiaca Boiss. showed adequate persistence (6–8 days) in acidic soils (pH 5·0–6·3), but residual activity was short (1–3 days) in alkaline soils. The compounds tended to lose activity at a faster rate in the alkaline clay Gezira soil (pH 7·8), than in its sandy equivalent (pH 8·1). In solution, pH had no influence on initial activity, but residual action was reduced more rapidly by alkalinity and high temperature. However, the rate of loss of activity in solution was slower than in soils.