feaured_photo_co
Courtesy EcoPort (http://www.ecoport.org): Photography courtesy of Western Weeds CD-ROM. Web version by R. Randall.
Is this a Minor Pest?
Yes
Minor Pest Title
Weeds
Minor Pest Description
The major weeds in potato crops are annuals. Weeds can reduce yields through direct competition for light, moisture and nutrients. They may harbour pests and diseases that attack potatoes. Early season competition of weeds is very critical. When properly grown, the crop normally covers the ground and smothers any weed competition. Weeds present at harvest increase mechanical damage to the tubers, and reduce harvesting efficiency by slowing down harvesting operations and leaving tubers in the ground. The most important weed in potatoes worldwide is pigweed or fat hen (Chenopodium album).
Minor Pest What to do.
- Practise crop rotation. Rotation of 2 or 3 years is an important strategy to control perennial weeds. Weeds tend to thrive with crops of similar growth requirements as their own and may benefit from practices directed to the crop. When diverse crops are used in a rotation, weed germination and growth cycles are disrupted by variation in cultural practices associated with each crop.
- Control weeds early in the season. It is important to stop broadleaved weeds or annual grasses from appearing above the crop and competing strongly for nutrients and moisture when tubers are enlarging.
Minor Pest Position
7
Minor Pest Firstcontent
139
Pest Type
weeds
Host Plants
Potato
Featured Image
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