The Effect of Inter‐row Cultivation on Yield of Weed‐free Maize

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Inter‐row cultivation can be a means to reduce herbicide use in maize (Zea mays L.) production. Apart from its effect on weeds, inter‐row tillage may increase available water and nitrogen in the soil, affect soil temperature and damage crop roots. In 10 out of 13 field experiments conducted in the Netherlands from 1977 to 1985, 4‐ to 7‐cm deep inter‐row cultivation of a weed‐free maize crop did not significantly affect whole plant dry matter yield. In two experiments yield was increased with inter‐row cultivation; in one experiment inter‐row cultivation significantly decreased yield. These differences in crop response could not be attributed to factors known to affect crop response to inter‐row cultivation such as slope, soil texture, precipitation or mean temperature. Ten‐cm deep cultivation caused yield reduction, probably due to root damage.