Effect of sowing method and weed pressure on growth and quality of onion (Allium Cepa) seedlings

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Research Paper 01/09/2018
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Effect of sowing method and weed pressure on growth and quality of onion (Allium Cepa) seedlings

Edith Charewa, Lovejoy Tembo, Sommerset Mhungu
Int. J. Agron. Agri. Res.13( 3), 37-44, September 2018.
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Abstract

Onion is an important vegetable cultivated for its culinary and medicinal value. It is slow growing with cylindrical and erect leaves. This makes it a poor competitor against weeds as the crop cover cannot smother out weeds. An experiment was carried out to determine the influence of sowing methods and duration of weed pressure on the growth and quality of onion (Allium cepa) seedlings. The experiment was laid out as a split plot design in a randomized complete block arrangement with three replicates. The main plot was two sowing methods (broadcast and line) and the subplot was duration of weed pressure (weed free, weeding at 2 weeks, weeding at 3 weeks, weeding at 4 weeks, weeding at 5 weeks and weeding at 6 weeks).Data were recorded on weed density per m2, weed dry weight and seedling growth parameters (height, diameter, weight and density). Sowing method had a significant (P<0.01) effect on weed density and the broadcasting method maintained a higher weed density throughout the growing period. Weed pressure significantly (p<0.01) reduced onion seedling growth parameters. Early weed management is recommended as it improves growth and quality of onion seedlings.

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