SIMULATING THE EFFECT OF EMEX AUSTRALIS DENSITIES AND SOWING DATES ON AGRONOMIC TRAITS OF WHEAT

Reduction in yield and quality of wheat is major problem caused by the delayed sowing and interference of weeds. The effects of sowing dates (8th Nov, 16th Nov and 24th Nov) and Emex australis Steinh. density (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 plants per pot) on growth and yield of wheat were evaluated over two seasons (2005-06, 2006- 07). The statistical analysis of data exhibited non-significant effect of weed density on number of days taken to initiate flowering by E. australis. Highest values for E. australis plant height, dry biomass, number of seed per plant and seed weight were recorded by sowing wheat on 8th November at E. australis density of one plant per pot in both years. Maximum number of spike bearing tillers per pot, plant height, number of grains per spike, 1000-grain weight and grain yield were observed in 8th November sowing with zero E. australis density and minimum values for these parameters were recorded in late sowing (24th November) at maximum weed density of 4 plants per pot. Early sowing (8th Nov.) and weed free pots increased wheat grain yield compared to later sowings (16th Nov. and 24th Nov.) and higher weed density.