Author
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Boydston, Rick |
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Submitted to: Western Society of Weed Science Meeting Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 10/20/2006 Publication Date: 11/1/2006 Citation: Boydston, R.A. 2006. Using Mustard Seed Meal and Cover Crops for Weed Control. 56th Annual Washington State Weed Conference. Conference Abstracts. pp. 23. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: There continues to be a steady growth in the use of fall planted brassica cover crops in the Columbia Basin especially prior to potatoes. Several benefits include better water infiltration, reclaiming nitrogen, reduced erosion, and suppression of nematodes, diseases, and weeds. Weed suppression is often marginal and may be due to a combination of biofumigation and preventing late season weeds from producing additional seed in the fall. There is increased regional interest in growing biofuel crops, such as canola and various mustards. Several crushing plants are now operating in the Columbia Basin and seed meal is left after removing the oil. Canola (Brassica napus) seed meal will likely be sold for animal feed, but could find a variety of other uses. Seed meal from brown (Indian) mustard (Brassica juncea) and white mustard (Sinapis alba) has been tested for weed control in various studies. Seed meal from white mustard suppresses weeds when applied at rates of 1 to 2 tons/acre and may be useful in certain crops, and organic production. Weed suppression using mustard seed meal in peppermint, potato, nursery containers, and several other crops will be presented. |
