Effect of weed-management practices on direct-seeded rice (Otyza sativa) under puddled lowlands

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2001 and 2002 at the Crop Research Station, Ghaghraghat (Bahraich), to find out the most effective weed-control method in controlling weeds in direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.) under puddled condition. Pre-emergence application of anilophos + 2, 4-D (0.3+0.5 kg a.i./ha) supplemented by 1 hand-weeding 40 days after sowing (DAS) provided a broad-spectrum weed control throughout the crop season. The highest weed-control efficiency (85.2%) was also recorded under this treatment. The grain yield and nutrient uptake of the crop were highest in 2 hand-weeding treatments which was comparable with treatment of anilophos + 2,4-D (0.3+0.5 kg a.i./ha)+ 1 hand-weeding 40 days after sowing (DAS). Both formulations of fenoxaprop-P-ethyl and almix + 0.2% surfactant as post-emergence resulted in the poorest control of weeds, lower grain yield and higher phytotoxicity to rice crop.