Weeds are considered to be the major pest in wheat and pose a big threat to the crop yield. Both narrow-leaf and broad-leaf weeds compete with the wheat plant for nutrients and water which ultimately affects the plant growth and yield. In order to ensure a healthy wheat crop, farmers should incorporate weed management practices to control the growth of both types of weeds. Here are some methods to control narrow and broad-leaf weeds in wheat crop:
1. Pre-plant herbicides: Pre-plant herbicides are a great way to control weeds before the wheat crop is planted. This method is also known as a soil sterilization technique, which involves applying herbicides to the soil that will eliminate any weed seeds present in the soil. This technique will help to minimize the growth of both narrow-leaf and broad-leaf weeds.
2. Crop rotation: Crop rotation is another way to control weeds in the wheat crop. It is recommended to rotate the wheat crop with other crops such as corn or soybean. This will help to break the cycle of weed growth and reduce the build-up of weeds in the soil.
3. Post-emergent herbicides: Post-emergent herbicides refer to the application of herbicides after the wheat crop has emerged. This technique targets the weeds that have already emerged from the soil. There are several selective herbicides available in the market which are effective in controlling both narrow-leaf and broad-leaf weeds.
4. Manual control: Another effective way to control weeds in the wheat crop is manual control. This technique requires the farmer to manually remove the weeds by hand or by using a hoe. This technique is laborious and time-consuming, but it is a great way to get rid of weeds without using herbicide.
5. Cultural control: Other cultural practices like tillage, crop density and fertilization can also help in controlling weeds to a great extent. Proper tillage practices help in uprooting the weed seedlings, while the correct crop density will help to promote crop growth, making it more difficult for weeds to compete.
In conclusion, weed management is necessary for the smooth growth of the wheat crop. By adopting one or more of the above techniques, farmers can effectively control narrow-leaf and broad-leaf weeds and ensure a healthy wheat crop.