Effect of Weed Management on Weed Dynamics and Performance of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under Late Sown Condition

Abstract

Aims: This study evaluated chemical and cultural weed management strategies for late-sown wheat in the Indo-Gangetic plains, quantifying effects on weed flora, crop growth, yield, nutrient dynamics, soil fertility, and economics. Study Design:  Randomised Block Design. Place and Duration of Study: Study conducted at research farm of C.C.R. P.G. College Muzaffarnagar, during Rabi season (winter cropping season) of 2022-23. Methodology: Research was conducted on wheat variety DBW-90 with 12 treatments (combination of Chemical + Cultural) and 3 replications during Rabi 2022–23 at Muzaffarnagar, U.P. Results: The weed flora comprised predominantly Phalaris minor and Avena ludoviciana among grasses, with Chenopodium album, Anagallis arvensis and Melilotus indica among broadleaf weeds, with grassy weeds dominating across 30, 60, and 90 Days After Sowing (DAS). The pre-emergence Pyroxasulfone 127 g a.i. ha−1 followed by post-emergence Mesosulfuron-methyl + Iodosulfuron-methyl sodium 30+6 g a.i. ha−1 consistently minimized total weed density and dry matter, achieved the highest weed control efficiency at 60 and 90 DAS, and maximized wheat growth and yield attributes among herbicidal treatments. Conclusion: This regime enhanced NPK uptake by crop, reduced nutrient removal by weeds, improved post-harvest soil available NPK and organic carbon, and provided the highest net returns and B:C ratio among herbicidal options, making it the most effective and economical combination for late-sown wheat under the study conditions.