Allelochemicals: An Emerging Tool for Weed Management

Allelopathy represents a mechanism by which plant releases biochemical compounds that influence cell division, seed germination, physiology, overall growth, development, and survival of other plants. Presently, allelochemicals find applications in crop field, especially in weed management, and in agricultural systems as growth regulator, as well as herbicides. Applying such allelochemicals is safer than synthetic harmful chemicals as these natural biodegradable phytometabolites hardly leave residual toxicity on targets. Allelopathy is mostly reported to produce inhibitory action of allelochemicals against targeted weeds and promises potent alternative to chemical herbicides. This article evaluates promising aspects of diverse allelochemicals as an upcoming tool in weed management.