Weed control in sunflower (Helianthus annuus) under temperate conditions of Kashmir valley

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2003 and 2004 under irrigated temperate conditions on weed control studies in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) on silty clay-loam soil of Shalimar, Jammu and Kashmir. Seven weed-control treatments consisted of unweeded check, Pendimethalin 1 kg/ha, Fluchloralin 1 kg/ha, Isoproturon 0.75 kg/ha, 1 hand-weeding at 20 days after sowing, 2 hand-weedings at 20 and 35 days after sowing and weed-free check. Pre-emergence application of Pendimethalin and pre-plant incorporation of Fluchloralin effectively controlled the weeds and resulted in better growth, development and yield of sunflower. Pre-emergence application of Pendimathalin resulted in 75% higher yield and additional returns (Rs 9,195) over weedy check.