Effect of application of witch weed control options on performance of two maize varieties in Uganda

Abstract

On-farm witch weed (Striga sp.) control management options were tested in Kamuli and Iganga districts in inga infested tields. The objective was to test etticacy of striga control options reported elsewhere unde gandan conditions. A trial was set up with the following treatments: 120 kg N ha' with and without herbicid (Dicamba, a.i. Dimethylamine) application, use of a trap crop (sunflower) and the control. Striga plant population significantly (P<0.05) reduced maize yields. However fertilisers and or with herbicide treatments significantly controlled Striga infestation resulting in increased yield gains. Under sunflower plots in the first season, no Striga plants emerged, however in the following season, sunflower plots were used as the control, Striga emergence was very high leading to significant reduction in yields. Combined use of urea and Dicamba was found to be profitable. Through application of fertilisers and Dicamba a farmer reduced his unit cost of production by 25%. An integrated approach comprising of use of mechanical weeding before flowering in combination with other weed control strategies reported in this paper can tremendously reduce on the soil seed bank. This clearly demonstrates that effective management of Striga can be achieved through an integrated approach.