Effect of weed control and sowing methods on production potential of wheat (Triticum aestivum)

A field experiment was conducted during winter seasons of 1999–2000 and 2000–2001 to find out effect of weed control and sowing methods on production potential of ‘Lok 1’ wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.). Twentyfour treatment combinations consisted of 8 weed-control treatments and 3 methods of sowing. On pooled basis, the monocot and dicot weeds constituted 23.4 and 76.6% weed population respectively. Tank mix application of metsulfuron methyl and isoproturon (4+750 g/ha) recorded the lowest weed dry matter which was at par with other tank mix applications but statistically superior to individual applications. Among individual applications, isoproturon was found statistically superior in reducing weed dry matter. The weed-control treatments recorded significantly higher yield attributes, yield, net returns and benefit: cost ratio compared to weedy check. Application of metsulfuron methyl + isoproturon (4 + 750 g/ha) recorded maximum values of all these parameters which were at par with other tank mix applications but found statistically superior to individual applications. Among individual applications, isoproturon recorded maximum value but found statistically equivalent to other individually applied herbicides. The maximum values of yield attributes, yield, net return and benefit: cost ratio were recorded in cross sowing (22.5 cm x 22.5 cm) compared to normal (22.5 cm) and close (18 cm) line sowing. Cross-sowing methods also recorded lowest weed dry matter.