Weed Management Studies in Cassava (Manihot esculenta L.) Intercropping Systems under Irrigated Conditions

A field experiment was conducted during 2003-04 and 2004-05 to asses the production potential of intercropping of cassava (Manihot esculenta L.) with groundnut (Arachis hypogea), vegetable cowpea (Vigna sinensis) and black gram (Vigna mungo) in relation to various weed control practices. Intercropping influenced the population of grasses, sedges, BLW and total dry matter production of weeds. Weed management caused significant improvement in growth, yield and economic returns of cassava system. Best results were achieved with intercropping of vegetable cowpea with pre-emergence application of fluchloralin 0.75 kg/ha + one hand weeding 4 weeks after planting followed by application of alachlor @ 1.5 kg/ha + one hand weeding 4 weeks after planting.