An integrated inter- and intra-row weeding system for row crops

Abstract Weeding is critical to eliminate non-native plants that compete with main crops and adversely affect their production quality and quantity. Numerous prototypes exist for inter-row weeding but very limited for intra-row weed eradication. This study developed a tractor drawn integrated inter- and intra-row weeding (IIIRW) system for field crops. Active rotary tines were used for intra-row weeding and passive tines for inter-row weeding. Optimum operational configurations were obtained with rigorous repeated soil bin experiments, and developed system was evaluated for three growing seasons (2017–19) in field grown maize (Zea mays L.) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) crops. Optimum ratios of intra-row tine rotary speed to forward speed (u/v) were in the ranges of 0.8–1.3 that lead to weed mortality of 88.4% (Buried: 8.5%, Uprooted: 79.9%), negligible intact weeds, and plant damage (Pd) within 6%. Sole inter-row weeding operation resulted up to 78.1% of weed mortality (Buried: 18.1%, Uprooted: 60.0%) and negligible Pd. Overall weed mortality with the IIIRW system was 92.8% (Buried: 9.5%, Uprooted: 83.3%) in maize and 84.1% (Buried: 7.6%, Uprooted: 76.5%) in pigeon pea crops. Results suggest suitability of the IIIRW system for a range of similar crops for field capacity in ranges of 0.22–0.26 ha/h at recommended operating speeds within 0.50–0.56 m/s. The IIIRW system requires a single prime mover and could be potentially economical and efficient technology for field weeding operations.