Evaluation of Alachlor, Metolachlor and Pendimethalin for Weed Control in Rajmash (Phaseolm vulgaris L.> in Cold Desert of North-Western Himalayas

摘要

In spite of congenial climatic conditions for the cultivation of high value crops, growing of rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) has been an important component of subsistence farming in Lahaul valley of Himachal Pradesh. Of late, the area under the crophas increased and the produce has now found place in local as well as outside markets due to its good cooking quality and taste which fetch good premium to the farmers in the market. Besides, it provides nutritious fodder to animals in this fodder scarce area where only stall feeding can be done during winter due to heavy snowfall. Due to low rainfall, course textured and low water holding capacity soils, like other crops, rajmash is also grown only under frequently irrigated conditions, resulting in severe weed infestation. Lack of adequate and timely weed management has been found to cause innumerable yield loss due to non-availability of labour inputs in time. Therefore, herbicidal weed management seems to be an appropriate proposition.