Integrating Multiple Control Options Enhances Striga Management and Sorghum Yield on Heavily Infested Soils

Abstract

Parasitic weed Striga (Striga hermonthica and Striga asiatica) poses the greatest threat to sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] production in sub‐Saharan Africa. Several control options have been attempted but none was most effective when deployed individually. In this study combination of three different Striga control options namely resistant variety, tied‐ridge tillage, N fertilizer and their controls (susceptible variety, flat bed plating, and no N fertilizer) were evaluated at two Striga infested locations (Sirinka and Kobo) in Ethiopia in 2002 and 2003. Plots consisted of six 5‐m long rows and the experiment was replicated four times. Grain yield, biomass, and 1000‐kernel weight were determined. Striga emergence and vigor were recorded four times beginning 15 d after the first Striga plant emerged. Grain yield was 121% higher with the package involving the resistant variety, tied‐ridging, and N application compared with the package consisting of the controls. The use of the treatment combination involving resistant variety, tied‐ridges, and N fertilizer resulted in yield increases of 11, 42, and 43%, respectively. Striga emergence and vigor were 4 and 63% for the resistant variety and 85 and 100% for the N fertilizer, respectively, compared with the controls. Number of emerged Striga was 152% higher in tie‐ridged plots but Striga vigor was not affected. Resistant varieties should serve as central component in all integrated approaches for management of Striga in sorghum.