Weed Suppression Ability of Different Wheat Cultivars and Its Relationship to Early Canopy Development

Abstract

The competitive ability of crop cultivars against weeds is an important component of sustainable weed management in cereal production systems. The present study evaluated the weed suppression ability of different wheat cultivars and its relationship to early canopy development under field conditions. Selected wheat cultivars exhibiting variation in growth characteristics were cultivated under natural weed infestation to assess their competitive interactions with weed populations during the early growth stages. Observations were recorded on canopy cover, plant height, leaf area index, biomass accumulation, weed density, weed biomass, and grain yield. The results demonstrated significant differences among wheat cultivars in their ability to suppress weed growth and establishment. Cultivars with rapid early canopy development, greater leaf expansion, and higher biomass accumulation exhibited stronger weed suppression through enhanced shading and competition for light, nutrients, and soil moisture. Reduced weed density and lower weed biomass were observed in plots planted with highly competitive cultivars compared to less vigorous cultivars. Early canopy closure was strongly associated with decreased weed emergence and improved crop dominance within the production system. Correlation analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between canopy development parameters and weed biomass, indicating the importance of early crop growth in determining competitive outcomes. Enhanced weed suppression contributed to improved grain yield and reduced yield losses caused by weed competition. The findings highlight the potential use of competitive wheat cultivars as an eco-friendly component of integrated weed management programs. This study provides valuable insights into crop–weed interactions and supports the development of sustainable agricultural practices aimed at reducing herbicide dependence and improving wheat productivity.