Weed-free chickpea fields yield significantly higher grain production.
Researchers conducted a field experiment to see how different weed-control methods affect chickpea growth in late-sown conditions. They found that two hand-weedings at specific times completely controlled the weeds, leading to the highest grain yield. A single hand-weeding at a later stage also reduced weed growth and increased yield. Combining this with a pre-emergence herbicide application further improved weed control and yield. Overall, weed-free plots had the highest grain yield, with the combination of herbicide and hand-weeding at a specific time also showing good results.