Integrated weed management in rice

Abstract

Weeds are one of the major constraints in rice production systems. The development and adoption of proper integrated weed management strategies must form an integral part of sustainable rice production. An integrated weed management is defined as combinations of two or more weed control measures at low inputs in order to reduce weed competition in rice below an economical threshold level. Use of preventive methods and cultural practices such as crop simulation through nutrient application, method of rice sowing, planting time, plant population, and weed competitive cultivars have been recommended for minimizing impact of weeds on crop yield. The use of herbicide rotation, herbicide-resistant crops, bioherbicides, and their integration with hand tools or agricultural implements should be encouraged for better weed control efficiency.