Management of Celosia argentea L. in non cropped lands.

Abstract

Weed control is an activity proved to be labour intensive than any other activity in crop production. Weed composition and management is solely dependant on the persistence of weeds in soil. Celosia argentia(L.) is one of the most persistent weeds with faulty management. By applying different management techniques before they come to flowering, it is possible to control it since it is a seed propagated weed . Hence, an experiment was conducted by using the implements like Garden sword and hedge cutter to cut them back before they come to flowering , However , the growth pattern and reproductive stages were observed in order to assess the effectiveness of the management practice. Regrowth was observed with 2-3 days after cutting back irrespective of the height at which they were cut. All plants have come to flowering at the same time indicating its season bound nature. Further all the inflorescences put on by the plant after the cut back were small (5 cm in length) and did not produce any seed. this practice may be practically feasible in non cropped lands since it not only helps in controlling the seed production but also adds green matter to the soil. In due course of time the weed seeds deposition gets reduced leading to less weed number and improved soil fertility.