Weed control in cereals in Jordan

• Published in: Crop Protection 2003-03, Vol.22 (2), p.239-246
• Main Authors: Turk, M.A, Tawaha, A.M
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 2,4-D; Barley; Cereal; Hand weeding; Jordan; Wheat
• ISSN: 0261-2194; 1873-6904
• DOI: 10.1016/S0261-2194(02)00182-5

Weeds are a problem in the rainfed parts of Jordan. They compete with major crops for the limited resources of soil moisture and nutrients. Yield losses of major crops caused by weeds may range from 30% to 80% in Jordan. Wheat and barley are vigorous crops that rapidly cover the soil surface and often out-compete weeds. Small grains and other grasses are often planted as cover crops to suppress weeds. However, weeds can be a problem in wheat and barley especially where crop rotation is not practiced. An integrated approach to weed management in wheat and barley includes preventing the introduction or spread of weeds, crop rotation, cultural practices that result in a vigorous crop, and chemical treatment when necessary. Weed seeds can be spread from weeds growing along ditch banks and other areas, by tillage and harvesting equipments, and through contaminated crop seed. Crop rotation is an integral component of weed management since many weeds are easier to control in certain crops. Early planting dates generally result in plants that tiller more and are more competitive with weeds. Drill seeding produces a more uniform stand than broadcasting and helps in weed control. High seeding rates are also more competitive with weeds.