Punjab Agriculture Department (PAD) experts have warned the paddy growers that a good per acre yield cannot be achieved without effective control of weeds as these not only weaken the crop but also affect the quality and yield leading to financial losses to the farmers. According to an advisory issued by the information wing of the provincial agriculture department growers should maintain water level in paddy fields up to 3 inches till 30 days after transfer of plant for effective control of weeds.
While usage of weedicides with in three to five days of plantation also proves very effective, the advisory added. The experts said if growers could not follow these two steps after plantation then they should use spray against weeds in consultation with the local experts. Similarly if rice is sown through direct seeding technique then though controlling weed is a bit difficult even then elimination of weeds could be ensured through usage of appropriate spray in consultation with local experts within 17 to 22 days of plantation. This will not only enhance per acre yield but also produce better quality rice, the experts concluded.
