Evaluation of Tillage Implements for Stale Seedbed Tillage in Peanut(Arachis hypogaea)1

Abstract

Abstract: Studies were conducted from 1995 to 1997 near Tifton, GA, to evaluate shallow tillage implements and tillage frequency for stale seedbed weed control in peanut. Tillage implements evaluated were a power tiller, disk harrow, field conditioner, and sweep cultivator. Plots for each implement were tilled once or twice prior to planting peanut. Results from midseason weed counts and peanut yield showed similar responses among implements and frequency of tillage. These results indicate no advantage of any shallow tillage implement for stale seedbed weed control, although peanut yields were generally greater in plots with tilled stale seedbeds than in the nontilled control. The implement of choice should be based on cost of operation and compatibility with the overall peanut production system. Nomenclature: Peanut, Arachis hypogaea L., ‘Georgia Runner’. Key index words: Cultural weed control, groundnut. Abbreviations: DAE, days after emergence; POST, postemergence; PRE, preemergence.