Weed control in maize in the tropics
1986
Shenk, M.D. (Oregon State Univ., Corvallis, Oregon (USA). International Plant Protection Center)
Weed tend to be more serious in maize (Zea mays L.)) grown in the humid and subhumid tropics than in temperate climates. Climatic conditions favor rapid and vigorous development which enables weeds to exert competition very early in the life of the maize. Weed control methods in these environments will continue to be dictated by socioeconomic conditions. The prevalence of shifting cultivation and polyculture cropping systems will also influence weed control methods. Improved weed control is needed in many cases and it must be integrated into the overall production system of the farm. Long range, sustainable agricultural production systems, with less dependence on inputs must be developed. Herbicides definitely have a place in many situations, especially as a supplement to hand labor to improve timeliness of weed control and to resolve special problems of perennial and parasitic weeds. Herbicides will probably become more important as conservation tillage techniques are promoted, and as population pressures force conversion from shifting cultivation to permanent agriculture. Special problems of safety, correct use, and application techniques exist for persons who are illiterate. Improved protective clothing, packaging and labelling techniques and improved equipment and formulations will, however, make herbicide use feasible and efficient on peasant farms, and increase their efficiency on commercial farms.
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