Allelopathy – an element of the overall strategy for weed control

Abstract

Changes in weed associations under the influence of a number of factors require the exploration of new options for weed control. This article summarizes the main technologies in experimental methods used to study allelopathic relationships in the weed – crop system. Problems associated with methodical productions are discussed. The paper provides an overview of the results of our and foreign studies related to the practical application of weed control by using: allelopathic protector, suffocation, or rotary allelopathic companion plants, toxic extracts of allelopathic plants, mulching or burial of crop residues etc. In allelopathic relationships, the total destruction of all weed species in agrophytocenoses cannot be expected. Allelopathy should be seen as an element of the overall strategy for weed control. Profound theoretical studies on the methods for the practical application of allelopathy in modern agriculture are required.