Evaluation of Integrated Weed Management in Sugarcane
Author: Jagat Bandhu Adhikari*, Dil Raj Yadav and Chakra Ghalan
National Sugarcane Research Program, Jitpur, Bara/Nepal Agricultural Research Council, Kathmandu Nepal.
Published Date: 2025-01-10
Keywords: Herbicide, Weed Density, Sugarcane, Mulching, Yield.
Abstract:
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Integrated Weed Management (IWM) strategies on sugarcane yield and productivity in Nepal. The trial was conducted during 2020-2021 at the National Sugarcane Research Program, Jeetpur, Bara. The trial was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications and 12 weed management treatments, including various herbicides, plastic mulching, intercropping, and hand weeding. The results showed that plastic mulching was the most effective treatment, yielding 122.44 t/ha, significantly reducing weed density, and improving plant height and millable cane count. Similarly, the combination of Atrazine + Metribuzin (Pre) followed by 2,4-D (Post) produced high yields of 107.05 t/ha and 107.31 t/ha in both years, demonstrating strong weed control. These results confirm that minimizing weed competition through effective management strategies can promote optimal sugarcane growth, improving yield and overall productivity. The study highlights the crucial role of efficient weed management in enhancing sugarcane farming in Nepal.
