Assessment of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) yield loss due to weed in Sinana, highland condition of Bale, South Eastern Ethiopia

Weed plays an important role in important role in proper stand establishment of the growing crops, which finally hinder productivity and quality of the crop . Field experimental was conducted at Sinana Agricultural Research Center on station during 2013-2015 growing season to determine optimum weeding frequency for weed management in linseed ( Linum usitatissimum L.). Weeding treatments consisted of five levels weedy check (no weeding), weeding at 30-35 days after emergency, weeding at 55-60 days after emergency, weeding at 30-35 and 55-60 days after emergency and total weed free . The results indicated that effects of weeding frequency observed on all yield parameter showed that the importance of weeding frequency for linseed growth, yield and yield component. However, significant (P≤0.05) effect of weeding frequency was not observed in the case of flowering date and plant height. The maximum seed yield was recorded from weed free plot (1808.35kg/ha) and weeding two times (30-35 and 55-60 days after crop emergence) (1621.58kg/ha) respectively. Weed significantly reduces the vegetative growth and productivity parameter of the crop. In this field trail 24.6% yield loss was observed in linseed when weeds are allowed to grow for the whole season. Weeding twice at 30-35 and 55-60 days after emergence was optimal for growth, yield and yield component of linseed. The major weed identified during the experimental conducted in the experimental site were Cyperus esculantus, Chenopodium album, Amaranthus spp. Guizotia scabra, Bromus pectinatus and Commelina benghlensisa.