Recommended Citation
Maynard, Elizabeth T., "Weed Control in No-Till Pumpkins" (2008). Midwest Vegetable Trial Reports. Paper 48.
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/mwvtr/48
Date of this Version
1-1-2008
Keywords
variety trials, pumpkins, vegetables, Cucurbita pepo, no-tillage, weed control, integrated weed management, postemergent weed control
Abstract
"No-till production systems for pumpkins are of interest to Midwest producers, but achieving acceptable weed control without cultivation can be difficult. Research was conducted in Wanatah, Indiana in 2007 to evaluate postemergence weed control options for pumpkins no-till planted into a fall-seeded, spring-killed winter wheat cover crop. Weeds in no-till pumpkins were controlled reasonably well with a preemergence herbicide (Strategy®) followed by a hooded sprayer, row-middle application of a nonselective, nonresidual herbicide (glyphosate). Weed control, yield, and fruit size with this treatment were comparable to conventional tillage with a preemergence herbicide (Strategy®) and one cultivation. Hand weeding could be substituted for the nonselective herbicide with similar results. Other treatments for weed control in no-till pumpkins did not work as well. Even the best weed control treatment in this trial had large weeds present at season’s end. Additional weed control measures would be required to prevent weed seed production and shed. Future trials could include additional herbicides labeled for preemergence or row-middle use, different cover crop management practices, and treatments designed specifically to minimize weed seed additions to the soil."
Comments
Originally published in Midwest Vegetable Trial Report for 2007. Compiled by Elizabeth T. Maynard. Bulletin No. 2007-B18246. Dept. of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture and Office of Agricultural Research Programs, Purdue University, W. Lafayette, Indiana. February 2008.