Critical Period of Grass VS. Broadleaf Weed Interference in Peanut

Abstract

Studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of grass and broadleaf weeds on peanut growth and peanut yield. In separate studies, grass or broadleaf weeds were allowed to compete with peanut for various intervals to determine both the critical timing of weed removal and the critical weed-free period. Hand-weeding and selective herbicides were used at appropriate times to remove and terminate weed growth. These periods were then used to determine the critical period of weed control. The effects of various weedy intervals on peanut yield were also investigated. The critical period of grass weed control was found to be from 4.3 to 9 wk after planting (WAP), whereas the critical period of broadleaf weed control was from 2.6 to 8 WAP. Peanut yields decreased as weed interference intervals for both grass and broadleaf weeds increased, demonstrating the need for control of both grass and broadleaf weeds throughout much of the growing season.Nomenclature: Peanut, Arachis hypogaea L