Effect of row spacing, mulching and weed control on weed growth and yield of soybean (Glycine max)

A field study carried out during time rainy season of 1992 and 1993 revealed that reduction in row spacing from 45 cm to 25 cm increased the weed-control efficiency by 21.7% and grain yield by 15.6%. The oil content was also increased but protein content decreased, Though mulching at 5 tonnes/ha was effective ill controlling weeds (23%) and increasing grain yield (9.3%), it was found uneconomical. Weed control through maintenance of weed-free conditions up to 75 days after sowing or application of fluchloralin at 1.5 kg/ha preplanting incorporation + interculturing at 40 days after sowing were equally effective. However, the latter was economically more viable. Combined application of all the above treatments were found beneficial than their singe use.