Integrated Weed Management in horticultural crops

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to present a summary of recent research of integrated weed management (IWM) practices appropriate to cool season row crops capable of producing closed canopies before they are harvested-carrot (Daucus carota L.), cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.), and red/fodder and sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.). First, the critical period of each crop will be defined; these crops produce a canopy that is initially slow to develop, but later in the season will attenuate enough light to suppress further weed emergence. Next, various physical, cultural, and chemical measures to control weeds during that critical period of these crops will be examined. Finally, for each IWM practice, the logic for their use, how they may be implemented, the weed management benefits and limitations of each practice, and what is known of the effect of each practice on the indicators of agroecosystem health will be summarized.