Author(s): P. TRIPATHY, B. B. SAHOO, D. PATEL AND D. K. DASH

Abstract: Onion (Allium cepa L.) is an important export oriented vegetable among the cultivated Allium in India. India ranks 1st in area, 2nd production and 3rd in export in the world. Recent research has suggested that onions in the diet may play vital role in preventing coronary heart diseases and other aliments (Sangha and Bariag, 2003).Although India is a leading country in area and production but the productivity is very low as compared to other leading countries in the world due to many factors. One of the main limiting factors is weed infestation. Weeds compete with onion crop for nutrients, soil moisture, space, light and considerably reduce the bulb yield, quality and value of the crop through increased production and harvesting costs (Hussain, 1983). Due to smaller leaf size, slow growth and very shallow rooted system onions can not compete well with weeds particularly at early stages of growth (Appleby, 1996). Losses caused by weeds have been estimated to be much higher than those caused by insect pests and diseases. Generally, the bulb yield of onion reduced by 30-60% due to weed infestation. As weeds decrease the profitability of onion crops, therefore, weed must be controlled well in time. A good weed management programme is essential for good onion production. This study was therefore, conducted to compare the effectiveness of different control methods of weeds in onion crop.

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