Author
KENNEDY A C - 5348-25-00 | |
KREMER R J - 3622-15-00 |
Submitted to: Agronomy Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 11/1/1995 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Alternative weed management strategies are needed as the use of synthetic chemical herbicides for weed control becomes more restricted. Biological control of weeds is based on the premise that biotic factors have a significant influence on the distribution, abundance, and competitive abilities of plant species. Biological control offers alternative means of suppressing weed growth and establishment. To date, more than a hundred pathogens have been identified as having the potential for weed biocontrol. There are a number of constraints or problems in using these agents that need to be solved prior to acceptance, which include slow or inadequate suppression, limited host spectrum, and lack of consistency across environments. It is imperative that we begin now to develop our understanding of the soil microbes and their ecology, so that we may utilize them to benefit agriculture, especially in the area of weed management. The present use and potential application of these microorganisms in weed management need to be considered in weed management strategies. |