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Effect of weed free periods on canopy structure and leaf area distribution in maize (Zea mays L.)
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Abstract: (5450 Views) |
| In order to investigate the effect of different weed free periods on maize canopy structure and leaf area distribution, an experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications at Sari Agricultural and Natural Resources Campus, the University of Mazandaran in 2006 cropping season. The treatments were weed control till 4, 6, 8 and 10 leaf and tasseling stages of maize. Following these stages weeds were let to grow and compete with maize crop until harvest. Full season weed free and full season weed infestation were the two control treatments. Maize leaf area was measured in five canopy layers (0-0.5, 0.5-1, 1-1.5, 1.5-2 and >2 m). Maize plant height was measured at dough grain stage and grain yield, biological yield were also measured at the end of maize crop life cycle. Results revealed that different weed free periods had significant effects on total LAI as well as maize plant height. With shortening the weed free period to < 6-leaf stage , LAI, grain and biological yields of maize significantly reduced. Lengthening the weed free period up to 6-leaf stage had no significant effect on maize plant height and LAI in different canopy layers. However, shortening the weed free period to < 4-leaf stage reduced maize plant height and more leaf area developed in higher canopy layers. In full season weed interference treatment the greatest leaf area was recorded in 0.5-1 meter canopy layer. As weed- free period shortened the maize crop maitained its leaf area and grain yield by developing more leaf area in higher canopy layers. |
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| Keywords: Canopy layer, Canopy structure, Grain yield and Biologic yield, Leaf Area Index, Maize and Weed free period. |
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Full-Text [PDF 270 kb]
(1370 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Scientific & Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2015/02/23 | Accepted: 2015/02/23 | Published: 2015/02/23
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