Author(s): Lise Andersson, Samuel Njiru, Elena Petrova and Juan Carlos Hernandez

Abstract: Weed management plays a crucial role of crop production, influencing both soil health and crop yield. The effectiveness of various weed management strategies, particularly in irrigated agricultural systems, has significant implications for sustainability in farming practices. This research focuses on examining the impact of different weed control methods on soil health and the productivity of field pea (Pisum sativum) under irrigated conditions. The research investigates the effects of manual, chemical, and integrated weed management approaches on field pea growth, soil fertility, and pest dynamics. The findings suggest that while chemical weed control provides immediate results in terms of weed suppression, integrated and manual methods promote long-term soil health by preserving microbial diversity and soil organic matter. Additionally, the research highlights the influence of these weed management strategies on field pea yield, showing that integrated approaches, which combine organic and chemical practices, yield the highest productivity without compromising soil quality. The research recommends adopting a balanced weed management approach to maintain both crop productivity and environmental sustainability in irrigated systems. This paper contributes to the broader understanding of sustainable agricultural practices, emphasizing the need for integrated weed management strategies that are ecologically viable and economically feasible. Future research should focus on optimizing these strategies to improve soil health and agricultural outputs across different agro-ecosystems.

DOI: 10.22271/27889289.2024.v4.i2c.234

Pages: 250-253 | Views: 124 | Downloads: 47

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