Introduction to major field crops (1+1)

Weed Management

Sunflower is sown in wider rows (45-60 cm) which provides enough opportunity to weeds to establish. They cause enormous loss to sunflower crop as they compete for nutrients, moisture and light. Weed free conditions up to 45-60 days after sowing results in better yield performance. Sunflower smothers the weeds at later stage due to rapid growth. Hence, weeds emerging after this period do not pose serious problem.The prominent weed flora encounters with sunflower crop comprises of Trianthmaportulacastrum, Digeraarvensis, Phyllanthusniruri under dicot weeds and Cyprus rotundusand Cynodondactylon under monocot weeds. However, weed flora may vary from region to region depending upon climate, soil type and cropping pattern.

Depending upon the intensity and frequency of weed infestation, two hand hoeings at 20 and 40 days after sowing controls the weeds effectively. Pre-planting application of Fluchloralinor pre-emergence application of Pendimethalin @1.25 kg/ha have been found effective in controlling weeds in sunflower crop.