Effect of weed treatment on cereal yield in direct seeding: A challenge between soil pollution and seeds quality

Abstract

The study was conducted at Technical Institute of Cereals (ITGC-Setif) during the years 2014-2018 for understanding the effect of weed treatment in direct seeding on cereal yield, soil and seeds quality. Two horizons were considered: horizon one (0 < 20 cm) and horizon two (H2< 20 cm) and four herbicide doses were applied: D1 =1080g ha-1, D2= 900g ha-1, D3= 720 g ha-1 and D4= 540 g ha-1. The yield results depended on the herbicide doses applied before seeding. The highest yield responded to the highest dose of herbicide applied (1080g ha-1). Study indicated that glyphosate reached soil during weed treatment and transferred in deep soil layer and to harvested seeds. Half-live values (DT50) of glyphosate found under field conditions were high.