Competitive and Allelopathic Effects of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

Abstract

In the field, soybeans [Glycine max(L.) Merr. ‘Amsoy 71′] required 4 to 6 weeks free of sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.) competition for maximum yield. Competition studies suggested that more than one type of interference was involved when sunflowers grew with soybeans. In greenhouse studies, soybean height, fresh weight, and dry weight were significantly reduced at certain sunflower and soybean densities and levels of competition. Sunflower height was not reduced by any level of competition, but sunflower fresh and dry weights were reduced with high sunflower and soybean populations. Two percent (w/w) or greater amounts of ground, mature sunflower leaves mixed into the soil reduced emergence and growth of soybeans, sorghum [Sorghum bicolor(L.) Moench ‘G-625 GBR′], and sunflower. A mixture of powdered stems and branches of sunflower also reduced growth of the three species, although it was not as phytotoxic as ground leaves. Sunflower roots apparently released exudates into the nutrient solution and soil. Sunflower root exudates inhibited sunflower emergence, and reduced sorghum, soybean, and sunflower height, fresh weight, and dry weight.