Effect of Poplar (Populus deltoides M.) Plantation on Weed Growth in Wheat Crop

Abstract

Introduction of poplar tree line significantly influenced the population and growth of weeds at different distances. A field study was conducted for two years (1994-95 and 1995-96) at the Research Farm, J.V. College, Baraut, U.P., India. The aim of this study was to understand the impact of poplar on growth of associated weeds of wheat crop when grown in association with boundary plantation of poplar. Results showed that only 5 species of weeds were appeared between 0-9m distance as compared to 7 in control. More severe reduction was observed with increase in age of tree. Maximum reduction in number of weeds, dry matter production and nutrient uptake as compared to control was recorded in the area where leaf fall occurred (up to gm from tree line). On an average, 34.5 per cent less dry matter produced by the weeds between 0-15m distance. Likewise, nutrient uptake is a function of dry matter production. It was observed that nutrient uptake (N, P and K) reduced by 57.4, 68 and 57 per cent respectively near the tree line due to 3-year-old plantation, however reduction further increased to 66.3, 77 and 66.4 per cent, respectively with increase in age of trees from 3 to 4 years, as compared to control.