Rice farmers in Cambodia face weed management crisis, impacting crop yields
A survey in North-West Cambodia found that farmers face challenges with weed management in direct-seeded rice fields. Lack of water, poor herbicide timing, and weed competition are major issues affecting crop yield. Using reduced tillage, drill planting, and pre-emergence herbicides can help improve weed control. The shift to a two-crop rice system and seed spread by harvesting machines contribute to weed problems. Common weed seed contaminants in rice seed include Echinochloa crus-galli and Fimbristylis miliacea. Farmers relying on a narrow range of post-emergence herbicides are worsening weed issues. Integrated weed management and sustainable herbicide use are needed to address these challenges.