Performance of Various Weed Management Approaches on Weed Dynamics, Yield Attributes and Yield of Puddled Rice under Different Planting Techniques

Abstract

Background: Rice is a major food source worldwide and direct seeding can shorten crop duration and reduce labour. The system of rice intensification (SRI) can boost yields with fewer inputs. Weed management is crucial for high yields, but chemical herbicides may not be necessary with SRI. A study evaluated herbicide performance based on rice establishment methods. Methods: An field experiment was conducted in January to May, 2021 (Navarai) to find out the efficient weed control techniques in puddled rice. The experiment has been carried out in split-plot design, which included two planting techniques viz., drum seeded rice and system of rice intensification (SRI) in main plot, as well as eight weed control techniques viz., hand weeding, cono weeding, pretilachlor, bispyribac sodium and fenoxaprop - p - ethyl as pre and post emergence application in sub plot. Result: The results of the experiment demonstrated that among the planting techniques and weed management practices tested, the system of rice intensification and sequential application of pretilachlor @ 0.5 kg a.i ha-1 fb bispyribac sodium @ 20 g a.i ha-1 has revealed lowest weed density and highest weed control efficiency, yield attributes and yield and energetics.