Barley Allelopathy for Weed Control

Abstract

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is ranked as the fourth most important (area under cultivation and production-wise) among the cereals following maize, wheat, and rice. Barley is among the crops possessing a strong allelopathic activity. Important allelochemicals in barley may include phenolic compounds and alkaloids (e.g., hordenine, gramine). Weeds infesting the barley crop can be suppressed by growing barley cultivars expressing a high allelopathic activity. Similarly, allelo- pathic mulch material from barley can be applied for controlling weeds in barley and other crops. Breeding efforts can help to improve the allelopathic potential of barley cultivars for an effective and environment-friendly weed control.