Effect of Row Spacing and Weed Management Practices on the Performance of Aerobic Rice

Abstract Direct-seeded rice alternative to transplanted rice system is less labor intensive, easier to plant, and consume less water. The advantages of direct-seeded rice have been proved by many research workers, but yet it is not very much adapted by farmers. Weeds reduce cost effectiveness of direct-seeded rice. A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different row spacing and weed management practices on the performance of aerobic rice at Agronomic Research Area, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, during summer season of 2013. Fine rice variety ‘Super Basmati’ was used for experiment in a randomized complete block design with factorial arrangements with three replications. Hand drill sowing with row spacing comprised 15 cm, 22.5 cm, and 30 cm was practiced. Weed scouting hoeing (hand pulling is weed free treatment for comparison with the others and hoeing is a type of mechanical weeding) and pre-emergence herbicide, followed by post-emergence herbicide, were the weed management practices. Weeds data and rice yield parameters were measured. Maximum reduction in weed density (86%) and weed dry weight (79%) was recorded for pre-emergence, followed by for post-emergence herbicide in crop sown at 15 cm row spacing.