Weed biomass and economic yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum) as influenced by chemical weed control under rainfed conditions

Abstract

A study to investigate the efficacy of different herbicides on rainfed wheat was carried out at the experimental farm, of the University of Arid Agriculture, Rawalpindi during 2004 to 2007. Wheat variety GA-2002 was planted as a test crop. The experiment was carried out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Among different treatments, the lowest weed biomass was achieved in hand weeding treatment. Plots treated with herbicide Buctril super (Bromoxonil + MCPA) also produced excellent results in reducing weed biomass. The highest grain yield was recorded in plots where Buctril Super was sprayed. Weedy check treatment was at the bottom with the lowest grain yield. Economic analysis indicated that Buctril super was the best treatment with the highest benefit cost ratio.

Key words: Wheat, weed control, herbicides, rainfed conditions.