Evaluation of Herbicidal Formulations for Weed Control in Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) under Variable Agro-Ecological Conditions of Bangladesh

Abstract

Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) is a major fibre crop of Bangladesh, but its yield is seriously constrained by heavy weed infestation during early growth stages. To address this challenge, a field study was conducted at the Jute Agriculture Experimental Station (JAES), Manikganj, and the Jute Research Sub-Station, Tarabo, during the 2023 and 2024 kharif seasons to evaluate the efficacy of 18 commercial herbicidal formulations under diverse agro-ecological conditions. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with two replications on silty loam and sandy clay loam soils. Treatments included different formulations of Quizalofop-p-ethyl, Glufosinate-ammonium, Pretilachlor, Benzoylprop-ethyl, and 2,4-D amine salt, applied at recommended rates. Results indicated that all herbicides provided substantial weed suppression (75–85% control efficiency), significantly reducing weed density and fresh biomass compared to the untreated control. Quizalofop-p-ethyl-based formulations, either alone or combined with Ethoxysulfuron (e.g., Natai 21OD, Raker 21OD), and Glufosinate-ammonium formulations (e.g., Fire 20SL, Imulin 20SL) showed the most consistent performance across locations and years. No visible phytotoxicity was recorded on the jute crop. The effective herbicides, particularly Emifit 50EC, Natai 21OD, Orin 72SL, and Cutter 50EC, are promising candidates for inclusion in integrated weed management programs for jute. Adoption of these formulations could minimize labour dependency on hand weeding, improve fibre yield, and promote sustainable jute production across the variable agro-ecological zones of Bangladesh.