Influence of intercropping and weed-control measures on suppression of weeds and productivity of spring season sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea)

An experiment conducted during the spring season of 1996 and 1997 with sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) intercropping revealed that sole sunflower recorded the lowest count of weeds and dry matter. Sunflower grown at 100 cm in 1.2 ratio of intercropping recorded significantly higher yield attributes than sole sunflower. The yield parameters of groundnut were significantly suppressed in intercropping systems. The seed and biomass yields of both component crops were reduced by intercropping: Weed-control measures significantly enhanced the yield attributes and yield of sunflower and groundnut. Combined application of Pendimethalin and 1 hand-weeding recorded the lowest weed dry weight and the highest yield of both crops.