Integrated Weed Management in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Field experiment was conducted during kharif seasons of 1997 and 1998 to evaluate the relative efficacy of f1uchloralin, pendimethalin, trifluralin and alachlor herbicides applied alone or in combination with one hoeing at four weeks after sowing (WAS) to control weeds in sesame. On an average, season long weed competition caused 50% reduction in seed yield. Integration of herbicides viz., f1uchloralin, pendimethalin and trifluralin at 1.0 kg ha−1 or alachlor at 2.0 kg ha−1 with one hoeing at 4 WAS was found more effective when assessed in terms of weed control efficiency and seed yield as compared to their alone use. Among herbicides, pre-emergence application of alachlor at 2.0 kg ha−1 combined with one hoeing at 4 WAS registered the highest weed control efficiency which enhanced yield attributes leading to higher seed yield (530 kg ha−1) and net return (Rs. 4275 ha−1). This treatment was found at par with f1uchloralin applied in conjunction with one hoeing.