Effect of herbicides alone and in combination with cultural methods on weed control in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea)

A field experiment was conducted at Morena during the winter seasons of 1998–99 and 1999–2000 at Morena, Madhya Pradesh, to study the comparative performance of different herbicides and their combinations with hoeing and hand weeding for control of weeds in Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson], The maximum seed yield of 17.08 q/ha was recorded with pre-emergence application of isoproturon @ 0.75 kg/ha + hand weeding 25 days after sowing (DAS) followed by pre-emergence application of metnbuzin @ 0.20 kg/ha + hand weeding 25 DAS. The maximum seed yield under isoproturon + hand weeding was recorded owing to increase in crop growth and yield attributes. The least weed competition, offered by the crop was due to reduced weed density and weed biomass production. This treatment also had the highest net returns of Rs 16,743/ha and benefit: cost ratio of 4:1 over other treatments Unchecked weeds caused nearly 37.5% seed yield loss with the minimum net returns (Rs 9312/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.02:1).