WOLAITA SODO UNIVERSITY DAWURO TARCHA

CUMPUS DEPARTMENT OF PLANT SCIENCE

EFFECT OF WEED MANAGEMENT PRACTICE ON YIELD AND YIELD

COMPONENT OF BREAD WHEAT (Triticum aestivum L.) IN TARCHA
UNIVERSITY, ETHIOPIA

GROUP NAME ID NO

Lelisa Negera ugr/69850/14

Duguma Merga ugr/69081/14

Mathewos Waqshuma ugr/ 69970/14

Advisor:- Mesele .A (M.Sc )

JANUARY, 2025.
Tarcha Ethiopia
 Table of Contents
LIST OF TABLES .................................................................................................................iv

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS...................................................................................v

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT........................................................................................................vi

ABSTRACT...............................................................................................................................vii

1. INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................1

1.1 Background and Justification...........................................................................................1

1.2 Statement of the Problem..................................................................................................3

1.3 Objective...........................................................................................................................4

1.3.1 General Objective…………………………………………………………………. .4

1.3.2 Specific objective.......................................................................................................4

1.4 Hypothesis of the research Proposal.................................................................................4

2. LITERATURE REVIEW.......................................................................................................5

2 .1 Taxonomy, Origin and Distribution of Wheat.................................................................5

2.2 Ecology of WHEAT.........................................................................................................6

2.3. Economic Importance on Wheat.....................................................................................7

2.4 Agronomic Practice for Bread Wheat Production............................................................7

2.4.1. Land preparation.......................................................................................................7

2.4.2. Time of sowing.........................................................................................................8

2.4.3. Seed rate....................................................................................................................8

2.5. Factor Affecting Growth on Wheat Crop.......................................................................8

i
 2.5.1 Weed Interactions with Crop.....................................................................................8

2.5.2. Moisture....................................................................................................................9

2.5.3. Nutrients....................................................................................................................9

2.5.4 Light.........................................................................................................................10

2.6. Weed Management Methods.........................................................................................11

2.6.1. Cultural Methods....................................................................................................11

2.6.2 Mechanical and Manual Weeding............................................................................12

2.6.3 Chemical Control.....................................................................................................12

2.6.4 Integrated Weed Management.................................................................................13

2.7 Effect of Weed Management Practice on Yield and Yield Component of Bread Wheat.
..............................................................................................................................................14

3. MATERIALS AND METHODS.........................................................................................16

3.1. Description of the Study Area.......................................................................................16

3.2 .Experimental Materials..................................................................................................16

3.3. Experimental design and Treatments.............................................................................17

3.3 Experimental procedure and Field management practice...............................................18

3.5 Data to be collected........................................................................................................18

3.5.1. Weed Data...............................................................................................................18

3.5.2. Wheat Data.............................................................................................................19

3.5 Data Analysis..................................................................................................................19

4. BENEFICIARIES................................................................................................................20

5. WORK PLAN......................................................................................................................21

6. BUDGET AND LOGISTICS...............................................................................................22

ii
7. REFERENCES.....................................................................................................................24

iii
 LIST OF TABLES Page
Table 1. Work Plan of 2024.....................................................................................................21
Table 2: Stationary costs..........................................................................................................22
Table 3 labor cost.....................................................................................................................22
Table 4: Input cost....................................................................................................................22
Table 5: Budget summary........................................................................................................23

iv
 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

ANOVA Analysis of Variance

CSA Central Statistics Agency

CV Coefficient of Variation

DAP Ammonium Phosphate

FAO Food of Agricultural organization

LSD List Significance Difference

RCBD Randomized Complete Block Design

v
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Would like to thank almighty God who kept up full faith to accomplish and come up with
this Proposal writing. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to our advisor Mr.
Mesele(M.Sc.) for his valuable effort for the completion of our paper and for his instructive
and Harmonious comments. At the last but not the least we want to give thanks to our family
for their financial support and countless ideas that enable us to motivate in doing of our
Proposal paper.

vi
ABSTRACT
Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an annual grain crop belonging to family Poaceae and
native to the Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. Weed’s infestation is one of the
major threats to crop yield. Thus, a field experiment will be carried out during 2024 cropping
season at south Ari, Zone to evaluate the effect of weed management on yield and yield
components of bread wheat. The wheat variety ‘Kakaba’ will be used as a test crop which
will be released by Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center in 2010. Five treatment will be
done T1 weed check (control),T2 One hand weeding two weeks after crop emergence ,T3 Two
hand weeding two and four weeks after crop emergence,T4 Three hand weeding two, four
and six weeks after crop emergence and T5 weed free check The experiment will be laid out
in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Crop parameters
such as difference weed and wheat data collection Weed density, Relative weed density, Weed
dry matter, Weed Control Efficiency, Weed Index, Days to 50 % heading, Total number of
productive tillers Spike Length, Days to physiological maturity and Plant height will be
recorded. Data analysis will be conducted using General Linear Model (GLM) procedure of
SAS statistical analysis version 9.2 software. Mean separation between treatments will be
performed using DMRT (P<0.05). Finally, at the end of this research, the effect of weed on
yield and yield components of bread wheat will be evaluated under field conditions at South
Ari Zone, and Southern Ethiopia. The total budget required to do this research will be
3154ETB.

Key words: - Hand weeding, Weed infestation, Weed management, Yield Components

vii
 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background and Justification

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an annual grain crop belonging to family Poaceae and native
to the Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. It is one of the most important cereal crops
produced worldwide and is a staple food for about one third of the world’s population
(Awoke et al., 2017).Wheat is one of the most important cereal crops account for about 27%
the world cereal production and utilized about 30% of the land area under cereal cultivation.
Its production is mainly concentrated in the Northern hemisphere and the leading world’s
producers of the crop are Russia, USA, China, India, Wheat is primarily used as a staple food
providing more protein than any other cereal crop (Iqbal et al., 2006). Wheat can be used for
different purpose such as for making bread, biscuit and pastry products, but also for the
production of starch and gluten. The raised bread loaf is possible because the wheat kernel
contains gluten, an elastic form of protein that traps minute bubbles of carbon dioxide when
fermentation occurs in leavened dough, causing the dough to rise (Ijaz et al., 2002).

In Ethiopia wheat is one of the most important high land cereal crops. It ranks fourth after
Teff, Maize and Sorghum interims of area coverage and third interims of total production
(CSA, 2007). The average per capital consumption of wheat in the country is estimated to be
39 kg/year during the year 1994-97 and 331,000 tons of wheat imported to meet the national
wheat requirements during 1995-97 (CIMMYT, 2000). The crop is grown at an altitude
ranging from 1500 to 3000 meter (m.a.s.l.) between 6-160 N latitude and 35-420 E
longitudes. However, the most suitable agro- ecological zones fall between 1900 and 2700
m.a.s.l. (Bekele et al., 2000). The major wheat producing areas in Ethiopia are located in
Arsi, Bale, Shewa, Ilubabor, Western Hareghe, Sidamo, Tigray, Northern Gonder and Gojam
zones (Bekele et al., 2000).

In Ethiopia wheat is used in different forms such as bread, porridge, soup and roasted grain.
In addition to the grain, its straw is used for animal feed, thatching roofs and bed decking.
Although wheat has a tremendous importance, its production in the country faced immense
production constraints that are affecting both its yield potential and industrial quality. Hence,
the average productivity of wheat in Ethiopia is very low; about 2400 kg ha -1 as which is
much below that of the world’s average about 2900 kg ha-1 (Awoke et al., 2017).
Wheat productivity in Ethiopia is even much below that of Kenya and African average by
29% and 13%, respectively (FAO, 2014). This low average productivity is attributed to a
number of constraints such as Weed management practices can have a significant effect on
the yield and yield components of bread wheat. Effective weed control is crucial to minimize
competition for resources such as nutrients, water, and light, which can ultimately impact
crop performance. Here are some key effects of weed management practices on yield and
yield components:

Yield Reduction: Uncontrolled weed growth can lead to substantial reductions in wheat yield.
Weeds compete with wheat plants for essential resources, resulting in decreased
photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and overall crop vigor. This competition can cause yield
losses due to reduced grain filling and smaller grain size. Grain Quality: Weeds can also
affect the quality of bread wheat grains. The presence of certain weed species may
contaminate harvested grains with undesirable substances, affecting their market value and
suitability for food production (Bekele, W. 2010).

Weeds can crowd out wheat plants, reducing stand density and limiting the number of
productive tillers. This can result in fewer heads per unit area, leading to decreased yield
potential. Weeds can contribute to increased total biomass within a field, diverting valuable
resources away from wheat plants. This additional biomass can further intensify competition
and negatively impact the growth and development of bread wheat. Weeds can interfere with
the harvesting process by obstructing machinery, increasing losses during harvest, and
potentially delaying operations. Effective weed management practices help maintain smooth
harvesting and reduce logistical challenges.

To optimize yield and yield components of bread wheat, it is crucial to implement

appropriate weed management strategies. These may include cultural practices (crop rotation,
proper sowing dates), mechanical methods (hand weeding, hoeing), biological control (using
beneficial insects), chemical control (herbicides), or a combination of these approaches. The
choice of strategy should depend on various factors such as weed species, weed density,
environmental conditions, and local regulations (Tardif, F. J. (2012).
1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite its importance in Ethiopia, the mean national yield is 2600.75kg/ha-1which is 12%
below the mean yield of Africa and 24% below the global mean yield of wheat (CSA,
2016/17). There are many reasons for low yield of wheat production in in Ethiopia including
south nation nationality people especially south Ari zone but weed infestation is the basic and
major component of low yield in crop production system. With the advent of new short
stature varieties, weeds competition has become even more severe (Shah et al., 2013).

Wheat productivity is remarkably reduced by weed infestation in the South Omo Zone.
Farmers in the area are aware of weed problem in their fields but often they cannot cope-up
with heavy weed infestation during the peak-period of agricultural activities because of labor
shortage, hence most of their fields are weeded late or left un-weeded. Such ineffective weed
management is considered as the main factor for low yield of wheat resulting in yield loss of
up to 58.6% when there is uninterrupted weed growth (Dawit et al., 2014). Nevertheless,
there are many weed management options that can reduce weed infestation remarkably and
enhance wheat production and productivity. Therefore, this proposal is design with the
objectives of evaluating the effect of different herbicide and their combination on weed
infestation and yield of wheat.

Weeds are notorious competitors for resources such as nutrients, water, and light, leading to
reduced crop yield and quality. However, there is a need to investigate the impact of different
weed management strategies on both the overall yield and specific yield components of bread
wheat. Yield components include variables such as number of tillers, spike length, kernel
weight, grain number per spike, and grain weight per spike, which collectively contribute to
final grain yield. This problem arises due to the varying effectiveness of weed control
methods used by farmers, including manual weeding, mechanical cultivation, chemical
herbicide application. The choice of weed management practice can greatly influence the
competition between weeds and bread wheat, ultimately affecting crop yield and its
components ( Gafaar, N.A., 2007). the relationship between weed management practices and
bread wheat yield is vital in designing optimized weed control strategies that ensure high
yields and quality grain. By addressing this problem, valuable insights can be gained into the
most efficient and sustainable approaches to weed management in bread wheat production,
contributing to increased food security and economic sustainability in agriculture
1.3 Objective

1.3.1 General Objective

To evaluate the effect of weed management practice on yield and yield component of bread
wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Tarcha Ethiopia.

1.3.2 Specific objective

 To identify the effect of weed management practice on yield and yield component of
bread wheat in the study area.

 To determine the effective weeding time of wheat and to reduce weed competition
with wheat crop

1.4 Hypothesis of the research Proposal

Alternative Hypothesis

There is a significant effect of weed management practice on yield and yield component of
bread wheat.

Null Hypothesis

There is no significant of effect of weed management practice on yield and yield component
of bread wheat.
 2. LITERATURE REVIEW

2 .1 Taxonomy, Origin and Distribution of Wheat

Wheat is a grass widely cultivated for its seed, a cereal grain which is a worldwide staple
food. (Triticum aestivum), common or bread wheat is an annual grass in the Poaceae (grass
family) native to the Mediterranean region and southwest Asia which is one of several
species of cultivated wheat now grown in temperate, climates worldwide. Wheat was already
an important crop when history was first recorded and so accurate information on the exact
time and place of its origin is not available. The distribution of the wild wheat’s and grass
believed to be progenitors of the cultivated wheat supports the belief that wheat originated in
southeastern Asia. Some species were cultivated in Greece, Persia, Turkey, and Egypt in
prehistoric times while the cultivation of other species may be of more recent origin.

Wheat one of the top to cereal crops grown in the world for human consumption, along with
rice (Oryza sativa), (corn, zea mays is grown in larger amount than either rice or wheat, but a
significant portion of it is used for livestock feed and biofuel ,rather than human food ( FAO,
2005). In 2016, world production of wheat was 749 million tones, making it the second most-
produced cereal after maize. Ethiopia is the second largest producer of wheat in Sub-Saharan
Africa, following South Africa(J.D. Corbett, 2001). Wheat is an important cereal crop in
Ethiopia; it ranks third in terms of area after tef and maize, and second after maize in terms of
productivity (FAO, 2005). This evolution was accelerated by an expanding geographical
range of cultivation and by human selection, and had produced bread wheat as early as the
sixth millennium BC. Modern varieties are selections caused by natural mutation starting
with emmer wheat up to husk less modern wheat.

Cytological and cytogenetic evidences showed that wheat consists of diploid, tetraploid and
hexaploid (two, four and six sets of chromosomes respectively) species with a basic
chromosome set of x = 7. Three genomes designated as A, B, and D was involved in the
formation of the polyploidy series . Avenafatua L., Brome grass/Brumus pectinatus, Phalaris
paradox L. among grass weeds and, Corrigoialacapensis Wild, Galinsoga parviflora cav L,
Anagallis arvense, Polygonum aviculare L., Polygonum nepalense meisn L., Medicago
polymorpha L., Guizotia scabra (Vis) chiov, Gnaphalium unionis, Commelina sublata L.,
Rumex beguartii, Spergula arvensis L. among broad leaved weeds and Cyperus assimilis L.
Among sedge leave weeds) were highly managed by these sequential herbicides. However,
the yield has been affected by a number of factors such as disease, insect, and weeds. The
presence of weeds in crops can adversely affect production in a number of ways. Weeds
compete with crop plants for light, moisture, nutrients and space. Weeds also increase
harvesting costs, reduce quality of product and increase fire hazards. In order to increase
wheat yields, it is important to manage weeds, which resulted higher yield in wheat crops
(M.A. Khan., 2003). Chemical and hand weeding have often been used as a weed control
methods in wheat production. Chemicals weed control in wheat is best in producing higher
grain yield than hand weeding. In view of the importance of the weeds problem in wheat
crop, herbicides are generally effective

2.2 Ecology of WHEAT

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) is a widely cultivated cereal crop with specific ecological
and soil requirements for optimal growth. Here are some key factors to consider:

Ecological Requirements Climate Bread wheat is best suited to temperate climates with
moderate rainfall. It prefers cool temperatures during the growing season, usually between
15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F). However, it can tolerate a wide range of climates, from cold
winters to hot summers.Photoperiod sensitivity: Bread wheat has various photoperiod
sensitivities, meaning that its flowering time depends on day length. Different wheat varieties
have different requirements, but most are adapted to a long-day photoperiod.

Daylight hour’s Adequate sunlight is crucial for bread wheat growth. It typically requires at
least 8-10 hours of sunlight per day for optimum photosynthesis and grain
development.Altitude: Bread wheat is grown at various altitudes, ranging from sea level to
high mountainous regions. However, higher altitudes may require specific wheat varieties
adapted to those conditions (Powles, S. B. 2011).

 Soil Requirements:

Soil type: Bread wheat can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, silt loam, and clay
loam. Well-drained soils are preferred to prevent waterlogging, as excessive moisture can
lead to diseases and poor root development.Soil pH: A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range
of 6.0-7.5 is ideal for bread wheat. pH levels outside this range can hinder nutrient
availability and affect plant growth.
Soil fertility: Bread wheat requires fertile soils with adequate levels of essential nutrients like
nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Proper nutrient management, such as applying organic
matter or commercial fertilizers, is important to ensure optimal growth and yield.Organic
matter: Soils with good organic matter content promote better water-holding capacity,
nutrient retention, and overall soil health. Incorporating organic matter through practices like
crop residue management or organic amendments can benefit bread wheat cultivation.Soil
moisture: Bread wheat requires sufficient soil moisture throughout its growth stages,
especially during the critical stages of tillering, flowering, and grain filling. Adequate
irrigation or rainfall is crucial to ensure optimal yield (Bekele, W. 2010).

2.3. Economic Importance on Wheat

Wheat is an important source of carbohydrates. Globally, it is the leading source of vegetal

protein in human food, having a protein content of about 13%, which is relatively high
compared to other major cereals but relatively low in protein quality for supplying acids.
When eaten as the whole grain, wheat is a source of multiple nutrients and dietary fiber. In a
small part of the general population, gluten - the major part of wheat protein - can trigger
coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, gluten ataxia and dermatitis herpetiformis.
However, the productivity of wheat in Ethiopia is much lower than the yields of other wheat
producing countries of the world . It carries the genetic potential of the crop plant and thus
dictates the ultimate productivity of other inputs ( Ermias Habte, 2007). Ethiopia is one of the
wheat producing countries in the world. In Ethiopia; Bale, Arsi and some highlands of
Gondar the most wheat productive areas in the country for Bread and Enjera preparation Bale
is the most productive area of wheat in Ethiopia.

2.4 Agronomic Practice for Bread Wheat Production

Agronomy practice for bread wheat production, it is important to implement appropriate

agronomic practices.

2.4.1. Land preparation

The minimum tillage for field preparation has been more expensively tasted and adapted for
Wheat than other crops. In particular distribution between the seed bed to be firm and the root
bed, which should remain loose for as long as possible has become any accepted farming
practice in the wheat growing regions. Minimum tillage for wheat has generally given that
where equal to or greater than those obtained from conventional tillage (Williams, 1975).

2.4.2. Time of sowing

There are different types of sowing wheat like broad casting, drilling and dribbling (putting
seeds in the row) but, wheat should be sown in row space. The row space should run across
the prevailing slope of the land following center levels to retard run land minimize the soil
erosion loses. Inter row spacing generally ranges from 15-25 cm. The suitable sowing depth
for wheat is 2-5cm depth. Time of sowing is the most crucial factor affecting wheat growth;
wheat should be sowing at the beginning of the rain as much as possible. If sowing time is
delayed there is a decline in yield of wheat. In late sowing season the early growth of wheat
is slow because the soil air moisture condition is not ideal (most of pores are filled with
water). And later in the life cycle, late sown wheat may mature or even flower after the end
of rains. This is a serious risk in the short rainy season areas although, it is less of a risk were
the rainy season is long (Karlen, 1987).

2.4.3. Seed rate

Seed rate varies according to the size of the grain and the objective of raising the crop for
keeping the quality of the grain varieties. The seed rate is 140-160kg/ha for small size grain,
120-140kg/ha for medium size grain and100-120kg/ha for large size grain (Subnis, 1935).

2.5. Factor Affecting Growth on Wheat Crop

Several factors can affect the growth of wheat crops.

2.5.1 Weed Interactions with Crop

Most smallholder farmers perceive weeds as the greatest yield limiting constraint. Several
studies have documented the negative effects of weeds on yield of season-long weed
competition in Africa. Weeds compete with crops for nutrients, space, light and water, thus
reducing crop yields and quality. Competition is an important ecological process in both
natural and agricultural plant communities. Weed competition is most serious when the crop
is young. In weed-crop competition studies, the knowledge of critical periods of weed
competition may help to determine the potential effectiveness of competitive cultivars and
help producers to develop and implement appropriate weed control measures to minimize
yield losses in crops (Zimdahl rl, 2007). The “critical period” is the stage after which weed
growth does not affect crop yields. African crops have been studied at experimental farms to
define the weed-free period required after planting to prevent yield reduction in common
bread wheat . The critical period of crop-weed competition is approximately equal to the first
one-third to one-half of the life cycle of the crop. Keeping the crop free of weeds for the first
one-third of its life cycle usually assures near maximum productivity (M. Liebman, 2001).

2.5.2. Moisture

Weeds compete with crops for water, reduce water availability and contribute to intense crop
water stress. Weeds require just as much and often more moisture than crops and are often
more successful . Roots grow more rapidly and earlier than shoots in a plant’s life and
competition for nutrients and water usually begin before competition for light. Competition
for the relative root volume determines water occupied by competing plants and may be
greater when roots closely intermingle and crops and weeds try to obtain water from the same
volume of soil (Zimdahl rl, 2007). Less competition occurs if roots of crops and weeds are
concentrated in different soil areas or profiles. Plants that are more competitive are reported
to have fast-growing, large root systems so they are able to exploit a large volume of soil
quickly (RAO, S 2000).

2.5.3. Nutrients

Weeds usually absorb mineral nutrients faster than many crop plants. Morphological similar
weeds are more competition than dies-similar weeds. Competition may be Interspecific
(between two or more plants belonging to different species of weeds or crops i.e. (crop or
weed, weed or weed, or crop or crop) or Intraspecific (between plants of the same species
which may be crop or weed species). Crop weed competition is complicated because various
factors affect the extent to which it occurs. Crops and weeds compete for water, nutrients,
space and light (Zimdahl rl, 2007). If any of these factors is limited, the others cannot be used
as effectively. The more competitive species usually dominate an intermixed community of
weed and crop plants. This competitiveness is associated with differences between members
of the plant community in growth habit and rate of root and shoots growth and development
(RAO, S 2000). Competitiveness is also favored by rapid germination and rapid root
development, greater leaf area and greater plant height that grow more quickly than adjacent
plants or by plants that climb on to their neighbors, such as vines, that shade slower growing
or shorter plants in the community. It is also important to know how long weeds have to be
controlled in a crop before the crop itself can effectively compete with late emerging weeds.
The nutrient depletion zone is the same as that for water; if nutrients are utilized as they
arrive at the root. Weeds require the same nutrients as crops and weeds are believed to be
more successful in obtaining them.

The success in gaining nutrients may lead to more rapid growth and successful competition
for water and light. Fertilizers benefit weeds more than crops and the fertilizer application
increase competitive ability of weeds. Conversely, studies have also shown that in low
fertility soils weeds were more competitive than crops. Competition is greater if the weed
emerged earlier or it grew longer than the crop. On the other hand, ( C.S. Wortmann, 2002).
found that when nitrogen was applied, wheat nutrient uptake and growth decreased in
comparison with weed, but the relative competitiveness of wheat increased with potassium
application. Applying fertilizer in a crop heavily infested with weeds to reduce competition
for nutrients is reported to stimulate weed growth to the crop’s detriment. With low fertility,
competition is primarily for nutrients and with high fertility; competition is just as vigorous
and primarily for light and space. Increasing fertilizer application rate is not an economic and
agronomic way of avoiding or reducing crop losses due to weed competition because, in
general, weeds have a large nutrient requirement and absorb as much or more than the crop
plants (Zimdahl rl, 2007).

2.5.4 Light

Light regulates many aspects of plant growth and development and it is the most reliable of
the several environmental resources for plant growth. Photosynthesis processes in plants are
driven by light, which is transformed into chemical energy in the green leaf. Therefore, it is
reported that it is the green leaf, not the plant as such, that is the site of potential competition
for light. Neighboring plants reduce light supply by direct interception (shading). Any time, if
another shades leaves, there is competition for light. In most cases, light competition is more
severe when there is high fertility and adequate moisture because plants grow vigorously and
have large leaf areas (RAO, S 2000). Leaf area index, a measure of the photosynthetic surface
over a given area is correlated with potential light interception. Successful competitors for
light do not necessarily have more foliage, but have foliage in the most advantageous position
for light interception. Thus; a plant’s ability to intercept light is influenced by its angle of
leaf inclination and leaf arrangement (Zimdahl rl, 2007).
2.6. Weed Management Methods

Despite Weeds are difficult to manage than any other pests because they are stationary and
competition usually does not result from just one species, weed control is an important
management practice for wheat production that should be carried out to ensure optimum
grain yield. The objective of weed control is to create unfavorable conditions to weeds while
maintaining conditions conducive for plant growth. On the other hand, weed control in is to
reduce weed populations to levels that do not affect the yield, quality or harvesting of the
current or sequential crops.

2.6.1. Cultural Methods

Crop rotation, crop selection, variety selection, adjusting planting date, plant population and
spacing, plus fertilizer rate and method of application and are all cultural practices that affect
weed management. Crop rotation is one of the most important factors in an integrated weed
management program. Different crop also allow rotation of herbicides having a different
mode of action. There are several crops that can be rotated with wheat in the winter season
such as potato, onion, winter maize, mustard and sunflower. Other rotations include rice-
potato-sunflower, rice-mustard-sugarcane and rice-potato-onion has been found best alternate
(Singh, 2007).

Placement of fertilizers significantly reduce weed dry biomass from 8.5 to 7.9 g/m2 than
broadcast method of fertilizer application due to lesser availability of applied nutrient in inter
row spaces and also due to weed smothering to crop plants (Pandey et al., 2006). Ijaz et al.,
(2013) who observed that better weed control increased the nutrients availability to the crop
which ultimately increased the spike bearing tillers. Higher dose of nitrogen (160 kg N/ha)
significantly reduced the dry matter accumulation by weeds as compared to 120 kg N/ha
(Ashrafi et al., 2010). Due to less competition between weeds and wheat crop plants, resulted
in improved flow of nutrients towards grains, which enhanced the wheat yield (Khalil et al.,
2008).

Variety with quick initial growth and more leaf area must be preferred in order to reduce crop
weed competitions. Travlos (2012) observed that some wheat cultivars with enhanced weed
competitiveness can improve the efficacy of herbicides.
The sowing of crop can be manipulated in such a way that ecological conditions for
germination of weed seeds are not met due to escape mechanism. Singh et al. (2013)
observed less weed density and lower total weed biomass in early planting (October, 22)
wheat crop as compared to November, 11 and November, 21 sown crop. Kumar et al. (2013)
noted that weed free treatment resulted in significantly lower total weed count and total weed
dry weight at 90 days after sowing in wheat. Sharma et al. (2011) reported that increased seed
rates from 75 to 150 kg/ha significantly decreased dry weight of weeds in wheat. Khan &
Marwat (2006) also reported that higher seeding rate of wheat suppressed the weed in the
first year while in the second year, higher seeding rate could not suppress weeds due to
change in the climatic conditions. Increased seed rate helps in smothering weeds particularly
Phalaris minor by providing early competition advantage due to more number of crop plants
per unit area. As wheat density increased weed shoot biomass decreased significantly
(Toorabi et al., 2018).

2.6.2 Mechanical and Manual Weeding

Removal of weeds by various means of tools and implements, hand weeding and pulling
comes under mechanical and physical practices of weed control, respectively. Mechanical
weeding done twice at 15 and 30 days stage was found most effective in reducing weed dry
matter accumulation in wheat (Sharma et al., 2011). Pandey et al. (2007) revealed that hand
weeding significantly reduced the intensity of perennial grasses and sedges in wheat. Radhey
Shyam et al. (2009) noted that hand weeding twice at 35 and 55 days after sowing was most
effective to minimize the weed density and their dry weight under all the wheat establishment
methods.

2.6.3 Chemical Control

Weed management in wheat is not accomplished by using agronomical and cultural practices
exclusively. Herbicides continue to be the most powerful and reliable way to control weeds in
wheat. Herbicide mixtures may also be one of the options for management or delay of cross
resistance development (Dhawan et al., 2009). Alternate herbicides with different mode of
action also help in delaying the cross resistance. Brar and Walia (2009) reported that
mesosulfuron+ iodosulfuron, sulfosulfuron and clodinafop fb 2, 4-D were quite effective
against Phalaris minor and broad leaf weeds.
Malik et al. (2010) reported that chlorsulfuron 30 g/ha, triasulfuron 40 g/ha and metsulfuron
4g/ha reduced the density and dry weight of total weed to the extent of 85- 89 % and
produced grain yield of wheat statistically similar to weed free check. Bharat and Kachroo
(2010) opined that in wheat broad leaved weeds were significantly controlled with
application of metsulfuron methyl (4 g ha-1), 2, 4-D (750 g ha-1) and metribuzin (175 g ha-
1). Maximum weed control efficiency was observed with sulfosulfuron + 2, 4-D (25+ 500 g
ha-1) followed by metribuzin (200 g ha- 1). This was may be due to their broad spectrum
action. Chopra and Chopra (2010) carried out a field experiment on wheat at Karnal,
Haryana and studied that sole application of fenoxaprop (100g ha-1) and clodinafop (60 g ha-
1) were ineffective against broad leaved weeds like Rumex maritimus and Medicago
denticulata. Application of both these herbicides when followed by metsulfuron (4 g ha-1)
resulted in lowest weed density and weed dry weight and highest weed control efficiency.

2.6.4 Integrated Weed Management

Integrated weed management for crops is a concept that combines weed control principles,
practices, materials, and strategies to maintain plant health by minimizing damage from
weeds. It is very clear that herbicide alone will not be the solution for weed problem in
wheat. Therefore, perfect sowing techniques that allow integration of mechanical methods
with herbicides or cultural methods require urgent attention. Weed intensity and dry matter of
weeds at harvest were significantly lower in weed free followed by pendimethalin pre
emergence @ 1.0 kg/ha + hand weeding and was maximum in weedy check (Patil and
Dhonde, 2009).

Integration of isoproturon @ 0.75 kg/ha + 2,4-D @0.5 kg/ha with one inter culture at 30 DAS
was the best treatment in terms of reducing weed population and dry weight at different
stage of crop growth (Rathi et al. 2008). Singh et al. (2013) noticed that post emergence
application of metsulfuron (6 g ha-1) and 2, 4-D (500g ha-1) at 30-35 days after sowing in
wheat recorded higher weed killing efficiency (38.1 %), weed control efficiency (78.3 %),
lower weed index (23.5 %) and reduced their dry matter accumulation by 67.4 % as
compared to farmer’s practice. Abbas et al. (2014), and Chachar et al. (2009), who also
found that close planting (22.5 to 15 cm row to row distance) combined with chemical weed
control, gave minimum dry weed weight and maximum weed control. Chachar et al. (2009)
also reported higher 1000-grain weight in widely spaced rows with chemical weed control in
contrast to lower 1000-grain weight in close-row spacing with no weed control.
Chemical weed control in combination with 22.5 cm single-row sowing, cross-row sowing,
or closer spaced rows of 15 cm reduced weed competition and resulted in increased grain
yields of wheat. Ashrafi (2009) also found a significantly higher grain yield in 20 cm row
spacing subjected to broad-spectrum herbicide spray. Pradhan and Chakraborti (2010) found
that minimum weed density and dry weight of weeds in wheat were recorded with two
manual weeding’s followed by metribuzin (175 g ha-1) at 28 days after sowing in alone or
in combination with hoeing with dutch hoe at 21 days after sowing.

2.7 Effect of Weed Management Practice on Yield and Yield Component of Bread
Wheat.

The effect of weed management practices on yield and yield components of bread wheat can
vary depending on various factors such as the type of weed management practice, weed
species, timing of weed control, crop growth stage, environmental conditions, and other
agronomic practices employed. Generally, effective weed management practices can
significantly improve the yield and yield components of bread wheat by minimizing
competition for resources like nutrients, water, and light, leading to healthier and more
productive crops. Here are some common weed management practices and their potential
effects (Iqbal,N.,2010).

Chemical herbicides Properly timed and applied herbicides can effectively control weeds,
reducing competition with wheat plants. This can lead to better tillering, increased number of
spikes per unit area, larger grain size, and improved grain filling, ultimately increasing the
yield. Mechanical weed control: Physical methods like hand hoeing, mechanical cultivation,
or weed removal tools can help manage weeds. When done carefully to avoid damaging
wheat plants, these practices can result in reduced weed competition and improved yields
(Al-Khatib, K.,1999).

Crop rotation: Rotating wheat with non-host crops can disrupt weed life cycles and reduce
weed populations. This can lead to fewer weeds in subsequent wheat crops, resulting in
improved yield and yield components. Integrated Weed Management (IWM): Combining
various weed management practices, such as using cultural controls, herbicides, and crop
rotation, can provide a holistic approach to weed management. Implementing IWM strategies
can result in better weed control, reduced herbicide resistance, and improved wheat yield.
 Organic weed management: In organic systems, weed management relies on cultural
practices, cover cropping, mulching, and manual weed control rather than synthetic
herbicides. While organic weed management can be challenging, proper implementation can
still minimize weed competition and support good wheat growth, though yields might be
lower compared to conventional systems (Swanton, C. J.,2020)

.
 3. MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted in Dawro zone, South Western Ethiopia, which is located 500km
away from Addis Ababa to the South West and 144km away from Jimma to the South, the
capital city of Jimma zone,geographically, the tarcha district lies between latitude 6°59'_35N
and 36°68'E longitude. The altitude is about 1500-2300m. a.s.I. The mean annual temperature
ranges from 27°C to 37°C with an average of 20.5°C. Annual rainfall is 1294mm. The soil
type of the area heavy soil around 80% which is rich in organic matter while less capability to
dry water. The rain pattern in the Tarcha Zone is bimodal rainfall distribution with maximum
monthly rainfall was recorded in June and January of 227.2mm in june and 24.5mm in
January respectively. Source (Tarcha Town Administration Government Communication).

3.1. Description of the Study Area

3.2 .Experimental Materials

The materials used during the experiment will be

-kekeba wheat variety

- Fertilizer (DAP) and Urea

3.3. Experimental design and Treatments

Five weeding experimental treatments will be used as.

T1 = weed check (control)

T2 = One hand weeding two weeks after crop emergence
T3 = Two hand weeding two and four weeks after crop emergence,
T4 = Three hand weeding two, four and six weeks after crop emergence
T5= weed free check (clean weeding). The treatments will be arranged in
Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with five treatments and three replications.
The experimental area is divided into small homogenous blocks and each replication contains
complete set of 5 treatments which allocated to plots within each blocks at random. The size
of each plot will be 1.5m2x 2m2= 3m2. Total experimental area will be length 9.5m 2x width
8m2=76m2.The distance between plots and blocks will be 0.5m2 and 1m2,respectively.each
plot will be eight rows per plot. The spacing rows to row will be 0.25cm. Sowing the seed of
wheat.

Layout design Randomization

L-1.5 m2
T1 0.5 T2 0.5 T3 0.5 T4 0.5 T5

1m2

T3 0.5 T4 0.5 T5 0.5 T1 0.5 T2

1m2

T5 0.5 T3 0.5 T4 0.5 T2 0.5 T1

W-2m2
3.3 Experimental procedure and Field management practice

Site selection and Land preparation the experimental field will be selected and all unwanted
materials like stones, straw, weeds and any other unwanted substances will be removed. The
land will be prepared manually by digging at least two times. The level of the surface of the
land will be softening with addition of water and we will prepared raised seed beds. DAP
fertilizer will be applied during sowing date in all experimental plots. Then watering will be
carried out two times of a day i.e. early in the morning and in the afternoon. And when the
maize reaches for adding of N fertilizer it will be added appropriately. The land will be
ploughed three times by manual local plow and then followed by manual. Then will be using
the recommended fertilizers and hand weeding will be practiced to keep the plots free from
weed.

3.5 Data to be collected

3.5.1. Weed Data
Weed density will be recorded just before and after first-hand weeding and second-hand
weeding by using quadrat of 0.25m x 0.25m in the middle rows of each plot.

Relative weed density

The relative weed density of sedges, grasses and broad leaf will be calculated by the number
of a particular weed species over total number of weed species (Yakubu et al., 2006).

Weed dry matter

The counted weed density will be cut near the soil surface from each quadrat. The harvested
weeds will be placed into paper bags separately and sun dried before placing in an oven at a
72oc temperature and subsequently the dry weight of weeds will be measured.

Weed Control Efficiency (WCE): Weed control efficiency will be calculated on dry weight
basis by adopting the formula given by (Walia, 2003).

Where, WCE= Weed Control Efficiency; WDC=Weed dry matter in weedy check; and
WDT= weed dry matter in a particular treatment
Weed Index (WI): It will be measured with the help of the following formula as described
by (Balasubramaniyan and Palaniappan, 2007).

Where, WI = Weed Index; X = Yield in complete weed free; and Y = Yield in a particular
treatment

3.5.2. Wheat Data

Days to 50 % heading will be recorded as the number of days from sowing to when 50 % of
the plants in a net plot produced head

Total number of productive tillers will be counted from five randomly taken rows in each
net plot area at harvest.

Spike Length (SL): The spike length will be measured by using a ruler from the base to the
upper most part of the spike excluding awns. Data will be taken from five central inner rows
in centimeter and the mean length will be recorded.

Days to physiological maturity will be recorded as the number of days from sowing to the
time when the grain hardened and the straw turned light yellow, became dry and brittle in 75
% of the plants in a net plot area.
Plant height (cm) will be measured from 5 randomly pre tagged plants in each five central
rows from the base to the tip of the spike excluding the awns of the main stem at harvest .

3.5 Data Analysis

Data obtain from weeds, yield and yield components of bread wheat will be subjected to
analysis of variance (ANOVA). Data analyses will be conducted using General Linear Model
(GLM) procedure of SAS statistical analysis version 9.2 software. Mean separation will be
done using Duncan protected Least Significance Difference (LSD) test at 5% level of
significance
 4. BENEFICIARIES

From the output of this experiment several bodies will be benefited from different parts of
stakeholders which have agriculture based programs to the application on the ground after
releasing of the output through reporting. Stake holders such as: Researchers will be the first
user of this research output, secondly Consumers which is part of farmers in the surrounding
area will be benefited in regards to the final report. The last but not least user will be the
Department of Plant Science under the supervision of College of Agriculture and Natural
Resource, Tarcha University.
 5. WORK PLAN
Table 1. Work Plan of 2024

Activities Dec January Februry March April

Site selection X
Field work X
Sowing X
Fertilizer application X
Data collection X
Data analysis X
Report Write up X
Report circulation for comments X

Presentation (defense) X
 6. BUDGET AND LOGISTICS
Table 2: Stationary costs

No Item Unit Quantity Unit price Subtotal price

1 Paper Desta 120 1 120
2 Pen Doze 5 5 25
3 Print Page 45 6 270
4 Ruler 1 12 12
5 Note book Number 6 12 72
6 Computer Page 26 5 130
Total price 629

Table 3 labor cost

No Qualification Quantity Duration(in day or Payment Rate per Total

month) month
1 Field asst. 1 2 150 300

2 Daily laborer 2 2 200 800

3 Guard 1 3 250 750

Subtotal 1850

Table 4: Input cost

No Item Unit Quantity Single price Total price

1 Kekeba wheat Kg 5 24 120
2 Urea Kg 8 30 240
3 DAP Kg 9 35 315
Sub total 675
Table 5: Budget summary

No Item Price

1 Stationary cost 629

2 Labor cost 1850

3 Supplies and Input 675

Sub total 3154

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