CURRENT STATUS AND PROSPECTS OF MECHANICAL WEED CONTROL IN THE MAIN TILLAGE SYSTEM FOR GRAIN CORN (ZEA MAYS L.)
Abstract
The aim is to conduct an analytical review of the current scientific research on the impact of different tillage methods (traditional and alternative tillage technologies) on the level of weed infestation and the productivity of maize (Zea mays L.). Materials and methods. The study is based on modern scientific works by Ukrainian and foreign scientists on the impact of various primary soil cultivation systems on weed infestation levels and productivity of maize. The research methods employed include a systematic approach, comparative analysis and generalization. Results. This paper provides an overview of the literature on current primary tillage systems used in modern corn cultivation technologies, with a focus on reducing weed infestation. It outlines the advantages and limitations of these systems and their correlation with crop productivity. As there is currently no single standard for many of the tillage methods discussed, various approaches are considered which have been experimentally confirmed to be effective and satisfactory. First, traditional tillage methods are described, including ploughing to turn and loosen the soil deeply. Next, the most important alternative tillage systems are discussed, primarily minimum tillage ('mini–till'), strip–till and no–till technologies. Combined and differentiated tillage systems are also described briefly. Conclusions. The generalizations obtained can serve as a theoretical basis for optimizing primary tillage systems with the aim of improving the ecological stability of agroecosystems and the productivity of maize (Zea mays L.), as well as to reduce the total number of harmful vegetation and the seed bank in the crops of the studied crop and in the subsequent cultivation of other cultivated plants.
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