Effect of different establishment methods and weed management strategies in rice (Oryza sativa) under Cauvery delta zone of Tamil Nadu

Higher demand, cost of labour and low availability of water have forced the farmers to look for an alternative method of rice cultivation as a substitute to the existing conventional method of transplanting. Direct method of rice cultivation is better alternative over transplanting method. This is not only laboursaving method, but also results in significant water saving method in rice cultivation. However, the direct method of rice cultivation confronts with severe weed infestation in initial stage of crop growth and yield losses if weeds are not managed well. Therefore, this research work was conducted to study the establishment percentage and weeds of rice under different rice establishment methods and weed management practices during kuruvai seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21 with five main plots as establishment methods and six weed management practices as sub-plots in split-plot design on clay loam soil. The results demonstrated highest establishment percentage, WCE% and lesser weeds population obtained under SRI method of rice transplanting. All the herbicides reduced the weed population significantly as compared to weedy check. Pretilachlor 6% GR + bensulfuron methyl 0.6% (PE) and bispyribac sodium 10% SC (POE) reduced the weed population. Maximum reduction in yield due to weeds served in weedy check plot and lowest was recorded in PE followed by POE herbicidal application plot. Application of PE pretilachlor+bensulfuron methyl 0.6% @ 10 kg/ha under SRI method of transplanting resulted in highest average weed control efficiency.