Effect of Weed Management and Nitrogen Levels on Weed Dynamics and Nutrient Depletion in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

Abstract

Background: Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) productivity is often constrained by weed infestation and improper nitrogen management. Weeds compete with crops for essential resources such as nutrients, moisture, light and space, thereby reducing growth and yield. Nitrogen fertilization enhances crop performance but also influences weed growth and nutrient dynamics, making integrated weed and nutrient management essential for sustainable production. Methods: A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2021-22 at SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana, using a factorial randomized block design with three replications. The study comprised four weed management practices (W1: weedy check, W2: weed-free, W3: metsulfuron @ 4 g ha-1 and W4: 2,4-D @ 0.5 kg ha-1) and four nitrogen levels (N0, N1, N2 and N3). Observations on weed density, dry matter accumulation and nitrogen uptake by weeds were recorded and statistically analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Result: Weed density and biomass were significantly influenced by weed management practices. Treatment W1 recorded the highest weed growth, whereas W2 maintained negligible weed presence throughout the crop growth period. Among herbicides, W3 was more effective than W4 in reducing weed density and biomass. Nitrogen levels significantly affected weed dry matter, with the lowest biomass observed under N3 likely due to improved crop competitiveness. Nitrogen uptake by weeds was highest under W1 and lowest under W2. A positive relationship between weed biomass and nitrogen uptake was observed, indicating that higher biomass leads to greater nutrient depletion.