Weed Control Technology in U.S. Rice

Abstract

The objectives of weed control in a rice production system are: (a) to minimize losses in grain yield due to weed competition and interference; (b) to prevent or minimize quality losses and subsequent lower value of rough and milled rice; (c) to permit highly efficient use of costly production inputs such as high yielding cultivars, fertilizers, insect and disease control and irrigation; (d) to prevent weed buildup in crops rotated with rice; (e) to lower water and energy requirements for production of rice; and (f) to minimize potential damage to the environment and beneficial nontarget organisms. Effective weed control programs for rice integrate preventive, cultural, mechanical, chemical and biological practices. Although nonchemical methods are important in an effective weed control program, chemical methods are essential for weed control in rice. Chemical methods involve the use of herbicide treatments as single, mixture or sequential applications that, correctly applied, selectively control weeds. Biological methods include use of endemic fungi and the use of wild ducks. Various types of weed management methods are combined in the weed control programs, and the weed control inputs are integrated with other pest management and production practices for rice.