Economics of Sicklepod (Cassia obtusifolia) Management

Abstract

Research was conducted from 1979 through 1982 in east-central Alabama to determine the effect of various cropping and sicklepod (Cassia obtusifoliaL. # CASOB) management systems on yields and total net returns to land and management. Intense weed management inputs resulted in higher levels of sicklepod control than did standard inputs with spring tillage, but sicklepod control was good regardless of management intensity with no spring tillage. Sicklepod control in soybean [Glycine max(L.) Merr.] – corn (Zea maysL.) rotations was similar to that in continuous soybeans regardless of planting method. Even though intense management inputs often resulted in increased sicklepod control, total net returns from these systems were often less due to increased herbicide and application costs. Total net returns from summer-fallow systems were generally low since only a winter wheat crop was produced each year.