Effects of bed width and crop row spacing on barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli) emergence and seed production in furrow-irrigated rice

Abstract

Abstract Furrow-irrigated rice (Oryza sativa L.) has become a popular option for rice production in Arkansas. Highly troublesome weeds like barnyardgrass [Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv.] are a major problem for producers in all rice production systems. Cultural tactics should become a priority to enhance crop growth and competitiveness. This research aimed to determine the effects of bed width (irrigation furrow spacing) and crop row spacing manipulation on E. crus-galli emergence and seed production in a furrow-irrigated rice system. Three bed widths (76, 97, and 152 cm) (whole-plot factor) were used, and plots were drill seeded in four crop row spacings (13, 19, 25, and 38 cm) (subplot factor). The widest width of 152 cm had a slight increase in E. crus-galli density in the early rice life cycle but, by the end of the season, did not differ from the narrower bed widths. Conversely, a decrease in E. crus-galli seed production was observed as the bed width increased. Similar rice canopy coverage and yields occurred among all three bed widths. As for crop row spacing, as the width increased, E. crus-galli density also increased. The 13-cm crop row spacing had the lowest preflood E. crus-galli density, preharvest panicle count, and seed production. No effect of crop row spacing was observed on rice canopy coverage; however, the 13-cm crop row spacing produced the greatest rice yield. The 13-cm crop row spacing paired with the 152-cm bed width may be the optimum combination of ecological strategies in furrow-irrigated rice to reduce E. crus-galli seed production while maintaining rice growth and yield.