Ways to Control Weeds in Nurseries

Weed proliferation in nurseries can be a common problem. Weeds growing in nurseries compete with plants for nutrients, irrigation water, sunlight, etc. This can obstruct the growth of the plants and weaken them by restricting the availability of crucial components that help in overall development and growth. Almost all plants in the nursery can be affected by weeds. Therefore, it is very important to have proper knowledge about controlling them to reduce the adverse consequences that can be caused by weeds. Here, in this post, we will learn about the damage caused by weeds in nurseries, various methods to control them, and modern agricultural tools for their control.

Common Weeds that Affect Nurseries

• In nurseries, there are infestations of various types of weeds. These include bermuda grass, nut grass, wild oats, deergrass, carrot grass, thorn apple, barnyard grass, golden grass, lamb's quarters, prickly poppy, black nightshade, wild spinach, and others.

Damage Caused by Weeds in Nurseries

• Problems with Germination: Weeds in the nursery often cause issues with seed germination.
• Nutrient Deficiency: Weeds can lead to nutrient deficiencies in crops, affecting plant growth. Weeds present around the plants absorb the necessary nutrients and other elements that are quite necessary for the proper growth of seedlings in the nursery.
• Disease and Pest Infestation: The presence of weeds in the field increases the likelihood of diseases and pest infestations in the main crop.
• Plant Damage: Sometimes, certain weeds get entangled with plants, causing stems and leaves to break, become deformed, or get damaged.
• Reduced Resistance: Excessive weeds weaken the plants in the nursery by absorbing the necessary nutrients and other elements from the soil that are quite necessary for proper growth, hence reducing their resistance.
• Economic Loss: Excessive proliferation weeds are often controlled by using efficient herbicides/weedicides. Using such chemicals can increase the initial cultivation cost of farmers which will eventually affect the profit margin.

Effective Methods of Controlling Weeds in Nursery

• Hand Weeding: Controlling weeds by hand weeding in the nursery is a good option. It is particularly effective to individually remove weeds by hand in small nurseries.
• Mulching: Cover the soil around the plants with organic or inorganic materials, such as straw, wood chips, or a layer of plastic. By mulching, you can block sunlight and prevent weed seeds from germinating, helping to suppress weed growth.
• Adopt Crop Rotation: Avoid preparing the nursery for the same crop repeatedly in one place. Adopt crop rotation to break the weed cycle as it will disturb the life cycles and restrict the weeds from growing.
• Use of Mechanical Methods: For weed control, you can use various tools. In small nurseries, you can remove weeds with small tools like a hoe or trowel.
• Use of Herbicides: Various herbicides are available in the market for weed control. By using these chemicals, you can control weeds in a very short time and effectively.

Chemical Inputs to Control Weeds in Nursery

• To prevent weed growth after sowing, spray 400 gm of Pendimethalin 30% EC (brand examples: Dhanutop - Dhanuka, Dost - UPL) per acre of field, within 3 days of sowing.
• To control broadleaf weeds, after sowing and before seed germination, spray 500-800 ml of Paraquat Dichloride 24% SL (DeHaat Chopoff) per acre of field.
• To control weeds in rice nurseries, Use 80 gm of Pyrazosulfuron Ethyl 10% WP (DeHaat Lymentria) per acre of land.

Things to Keep in Mind While Using Herbicides in Nursery

• Proper Timing: Some herbicides need to be applied before seed germination. Therefore, it is essential to spray these chemicals at the correct time for the best results.
• Correct Quantity: Pay special attention to the quantity of herbicides used in the nursery. Using more than the required amount can destroy the germinating plants as well.
• Follow the Instructions: Follow the instructions given on the herbicide packet. Additionally, implement the suggestions provided by agricultural experts.
• Wind Direction: Be mindful of the wind direction when spraying herbicides. Avoid spraying against the direction of the wind.
• Safety Precautions: Ensure your safety while using herbicides. During spraying, cover your eyes, nose, and mouth well with glasses, gloves, masks, scarves, etc. If you come into contact with the chemicals, clean the contaminated part with water and consult a nearby physician immediately if you face any adverse consequences.

How do you control weeds in your nursery? Feel free to tell us your answer in the comments. For more information on weed management, follow the 'Weed Management' channel now. Also, don't forget to like and share this post to spread this information to other farmers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best herbicide for weeds?

A: There are many types of herbicides available in the market for weed control. Different crops require different herbicides. Additionally, there are different herbicides for broadleaf weeds and narrowleaf weeds. Therefore, use herbicides according to the type and stage of the crops in the nursery.

Q: How can weeds be controlled?

A: There are several ways to control weeds, including methods like weeding and hoeing, mulching, and applying biological and chemical methods. Additionally, you can prevent weed growth by practicing crop rotation and using drip irrigation methods.

Q: How can weeds be controlled in a rice nursery?

A: Controlling weeds in a rice nursery can be quite challenging for farmers. If the nursery is small, you can manually uproot and destroy the weeds. However, if the nursery is not small, you can use chemical control methods like applying (DeHaat Lymentria).