Orobanche weed management in mustard : Opportunities, possibilities and limitations

Abstract

Orobanche, a ‘super sink’ to mustard plant has threatened the farming community to rethink for alternative
options as this parasitic weed has become a menace to Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern &
Coss.] cultivation in India. This study reports the judicious and precautionary implication of glyphosate
application for its better efficacy in reducing the parasitic weed infestation while affording tolerance to the
mustard crop. Foliar sprays of glyphosate twice; first 25 g/ha at 30 DAS and second 50 g/ha at 55-60 DAS
is quite effective in reducing the weed infestation by inhibiting the further increase in weed seed bank in the
soil and substantially increasing the crop yields.