Effect of Organic Mulches on Weed Dynamics and Productivity of Super Napier Grass

Abstract

Background: The current practice of weed control in grass planting relies on the use of inorganic materials. This approach has the potential to damage the environment and is an inefficient method for controlling weeds in the cultivation of Super napier grass. This study aims to examine the use of organic mulch as a means of controlling weeds in the cultivation of forage, particularly Super napier grass. Methods: The experiment employed a randomized block design with four treatments and five replications. The treatments were as follows: no mulch (NM) served as the control treatment, rice straw mulch (RSM), rice husk mulch (RHM) and sawdust mulch (SDM). Each of these treatments was plotted with 3.5 m × 2.8 m in size. The experiment was conducted during the summer season, from April to September 2023, in Macorawalie, Panca Rijang, Sidenreng Rappang, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The observed parameter consisted of fresh weight, dry matter, growth, production and chemical soil. Result: The experimental results revealed that the use of organic mulch resulted in significant effect on soil chemical properties as it was proven to increase the N and C-organic contents of the soil. Sawdust mulch resulted in significant decrease in weed population as compared to other treatments of organic mulch.

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