Effect of weed management practices on growth & yield of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L. Millspaugh)

Abstract

Pigeonpea being a kharif season crop is highly infested with narrow and broad leaved weeds. Timely weed control is very essential for realization of yield potential of pigeonpea. Due to wider row spacing and initial slow growth of pigeonpea, weeds pose a major problem to its productivity which may lead to its yield reduction up to 80%. Manual and mechanical methods of weed control are quite effective, but they are costly and time consuming. However, due to frequent rains it becomes difficult to do hand weeding at proper time. Under given circumstances farmers needs alternate production system using chemical and cultural weed management that are more efficient, less labour-intensive and offer a quick response enabling farmers to produce more at less costs. In this context the present research work has been carried out