Effect of Tillage Systems and Weed Control Methods on Weeds, Yields and Economics of Wheat (Triticum aestivum)

A field experiment was conducted during the winter season of 2006-07 to study the effect of tillage practices (Zero and conventional tillage) and six weed control methods against weedy check on yield, weed dynamics and economics of wheat grown in rice-wheat sequence. Zero tillage increased the weed intensity by 20.3% reduced the grain yield by 4.2% net profit by 2.8% compared to conventional tillage. Among weed control methods, Pendimethalin @ 500 g.a.i./ha + one hand weeding being at par with 2, 4-D@ 500 g a.i./ha + Isoproturon @ 500 g a.i./ha produced significantly higher grain and straw yield than other weed control methods. These yields were attributed to higher growth and yield attributes in above weed control methods. The application of pendimethalin @ 500 g a.i./ha + one hand weeding showed highest weed control efficiency of 76.89% and gross income of Rs. 58864/ha. However, net profit was maximum of Rs. 35675/ha under application of 2,4-D @ 500 g a.i./ha + Isoproturon @ 500 g a.i./ha closely followed by pendimethalin @ 500 g a.i./ha + one hand weeding with Rs. 35130/ha. Single application of 2,4-D or Isoproturon or Pendimethalin at recommended doses reduced the yields and profit than combined application of any two herbicides at half of the recommended dose.