Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
6.2
3.3
Journals
Agronomy
Special Issues
Free from Herbicides: Ecological Weed Control
share announcement

Free from Herbicides: Ecological Weed Control

A special issue of Agronomy (ISSN 2073-4395). This special issue belongs to the section "Weed Science and Weed Management".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 July 2025 | Viewed by 6219

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Giovanni Mauromicale

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Agriculture, Food, and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Interests: agronomy; crop production; allelopathy; weed science; weed management; cover crops; fertilization; Cynara cardunculus; potato
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Aurelio Scavo

E-Mail
Guest Editor
Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
Interests: agronomy; crop production; allelopathy; weed science; weed management; cover crops; fertilization; Cynara cardunculus; potato
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The European Grean Deal (Farm to Fork strategy) and the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) demand for eco-friendly strategies that can manage weeds without using synthetic herbicides. In this context, this Special Issue aims to collate a collection of studies that update the research progress on non-chemical weed control.

We invite you to share your contributions on, but not limited to, the following topics: (1) agroecological weed management; (2) the application of allelopathic mechanisms (the use of plant extracts, the set-up and use of new bioherbicides, and the integration of allelopathic plants in polycultural systems (such as cover crops, intercropping, and crop rotation)); (3) the improvement of crop competition against weeds; (4) the management of the soil seedbank; (5) weed associations and species composition; (6) the control of invasive weeds; and (7) the non-chemical control of parasitic weeds. Research papers, communications, and review articles are welcome.

Prof. Dr. Giovanni Mauromicale
Dr. Aurelio Scavo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Agronomy is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • weed management
  • agroecology
  • allelopathy
  • bioherbicides
  • cover crops
  • soil seedbank
  • species composition
  • cultural methods

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (5 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

18 pages, 4563 KiB  
Article
Exserohilum rostratum-Mediated Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles: A Case Study on Their Bioherbicidal Activity Against Leptochloa chinensis (L.) Nees
by Ashrit Gulfraz, Yuquan Yuan, Qing Bu, Muhammad Shafiq, Zhiqiu Huang, Mingwei Li, Zhaoxia Dong, Jing An and Yong Chen
Agronomy 2024, 14(12), 2784; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14122784 - 23 Nov 2024
Viewed by 690
Abstract
The interdisciplinary progress in nanotechnology has yielded environmentally friendly and cost-effective strategies to enhance bioherbicidal efficacy. This study presents the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (M-AgNPs) using the fungus Exserohilum rostratum, specifically targeting the Leptochloa chinensis weed in paddy fields. The M-AgNPs were [...] Read more.
The interdisciplinary progress in nanotechnology has yielded environmentally friendly and cost-effective strategies to enhance bioherbicidal efficacy. This study presents the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (M-AgNPs) using the fungus Exserohilum rostratum, specifically targeting the Leptochloa chinensis weed in paddy fields. The M-AgNPs were characterized with an aqueous solution size of 107.9 nm and a zeta potential of −24.0 ± 0.20 mV, and their properties were analyzed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The application of M-AgNP suspension at different concentrations of 70 µg∙mL−1, 80 µg∙mL−1, and 100 µg∙mL−1 to L. chinensis at the 3–4 leaf stage resulted in significant herbicidal effects. These nanoparticles induced oxidative stress and significantly reduced the activities of peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase in the weed seedlings. Meanwhile, M-AgNP treatments significantly increased the activity of cell wall-degrading enzymes, including polygalacturonase and cellulase, in L. chinensis leaves and caused organelle damage in plant leaf cells. Safety assessments showed no significant impact on rice growth after treatment with M-AgNP3 (100 µg∙mL−1) suspension. Our results suggest that M-AgNPs represent a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to weed control that is compatible with rice cultivation, thus supporting the adoption of green agricultural practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Free from Herbicides: Ecological Weed Control)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 1045 KiB  
Article
Leveraging Wheat Competition to Manage Seasonal Expansion of Feathertop Rhodes Grass (Chloris virgata)
by Alireza Hasanfard and Bhagirath Singh Chauhan
Agronomy 2024, 14(8), 1708; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14081708 - 3 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 774
Abstract
Utilizing the potential of crops to suppress weeds is an important strategy for sustainable management. Feathertop Rhodes grass (FTR) (Chloris virgata Sw.) is a problematic warm-season weed in Australia that has recently expanded into colder seasons. This study investigated the growth and [...] Read more.
Utilizing the potential of crops to suppress weeds is an important strategy for sustainable management. Feathertop Rhodes grass (FTR) (Chloris virgata Sw.) is a problematic warm-season weed in Australia that has recently expanded into colder seasons. This study investigated the growth and seed production of FTR at two planting times (May and July) and three wheat planting densities (0, 82, and 164 plants m−2) using a neighborhood design over two years. In both years, the plant height, tiller production, and panicle production of FTR were lower in the presence of wheat compared to when wheat was absent. Surrounding FTR with wheat delayed its pinnacle emergence, varying from 1 to 6 days in the first year and 4 to 21 days in the second year, depending on the planting date and wheat density. During both years and planting times, wheat’s presence caused approximately a 99% decrease in the dry matter and seed production of FTR compared to wheat’s absence. Additionally, the wheat height, an important competitive factor, was higher at both densities in the May planting compared to the July planting. The emergence, establishment, and continuous production of FTR seeds throughout the year indicate that inadequate management could result in the further spread of this weed. Our findings suggest that adjusting the date and density of wheat planting could be a viable strategy for sustainably managing this weed during colder seasons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Free from Herbicides: Ecological Weed Control)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2788 KiB  
Article
An Ecological Weed Control Strategy in Paddy Fields: Light Interception from Duckweed Mulching
by Shuhan Xu, Feng Wang, Yuling Ding, Wenchao Liu, Yiyu Lan, Qingqing Jia, Peng Sun and Zhimin Sha
Agronomy 2024, 14(4), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14040670 - 26 Mar 2024
Viewed by 1952
Abstract
Rice–duckweed coculturing as an advanced technique has proven effective for weed control. However, the complex environmental interactions underlying its effectiveness remain unclear. In this study, a controlled pot experiment was conducted to isolate the shading effect of duckweeds (Landoltia punctata and Spirodela [...] Read more.
Rice–duckweed coculturing as an advanced technique has proven effective for weed control. However, the complex environmental interactions underlying its effectiveness remain unclear. In this study, a controlled pot experiment was conducted to isolate the shading effect of duckweeds (Landoltia punctata and Spirodela polyrhiza) from their intricate environmental interactions with paddy weeds (Cyperus difformis, Eclipta prostrata, and Ammannia auriculata). The results revealed that as the duckweeds grew, there were notable decreases in total weed density (52.41–77.01%) and biomass (42.33–99.23%) while rice biomass remained unaffected. Duckweed covering allowed less than 8.64% of light to pass through and led to decreases in environmental temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen concentration in the floodwater, but had little impact on inorganic nitrogen levels. Through screening with random forest analysis and structural equation modelling, it was found that weed density and biomass were predominantly influenced by the reduced light transmittance (54.1% and 77.2%, p ≤ 0.001) resulting from duckweed covering while the decline in dissolved oxygen content partly influenced weed density (18%). In conclusion, this study’s results bring a different perspective, confirming the sunlight-shading effect of duckweed as a critical mechanism significantly inhibiting the germination and growth of weeds. These findings provide a scientific basis for the improved application of ecological weed control methods in paddy fields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Free from Herbicides: Ecological Weed Control)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 2161 KiB  
Article
Allelopathic Activity of Three Wild Mediterranean Asteraceae: Silybum marianum, Cynara cardunculus var. sylvestris, Galactites tomentosus
by Mirko La Iacona, Sara Lombardo, Giovanni Mauromicale, Aurelio Scavo and Gaetano Pandino
Agronomy 2024, 14(3), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14030575 - 13 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1510
Abstract
The manipulation of allelopathic mechanisms, such as the isolation of plant allelochemicals for bioherbicide production, is currently providing a new tool for weed management methods of reducing or potentially eliminating the use of synthetic herbicides. In Mediterranean agroecosystems, wild Asteraceae are the prevalent [...] Read more.
The manipulation of allelopathic mechanisms, such as the isolation of plant allelochemicals for bioherbicide production, is currently providing a new tool for weed management methods of reducing or potentially eliminating the use of synthetic herbicides. In Mediterranean agroecosystems, wild Asteraceae are the prevalent taxa, likely due to their allelopathic activity. Hence, the objective of this study was to evaluate the allelopathic effects of the aqueous extracts obtained from milk thistle [Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn], wild cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L. var. sylvestris) and purple milk thistle (Galactites tomentosus Moench) on the seed germination, mean germination time, and seedling growth of three target weeds: Portulaca oleracea L., Taraxacum officinale (Weber) ex Wiggers and Anagallis arvensis L. The total polyphenol (TP), flavonoid (TF), flavonol (TFL), and phenolic acid (TPA) content in the aqueous extracts was also evaluated. Overall, the allelopathic effects were species-dependent and root length was the most affected parameter. All extracts completely inhibited root development in P. oleracea. Averaged over target weeds, C. cardunculus extract had the greatest allelopathic activity, followed by G. tomentosus and by S. marianum. In particular, C. cardunculus reduced seed germination by over 50% and increased the mean germination time by 154%, likely due to the highest TP (13.2 g kg−1 DM) and TPA (11.4 g kg−1 DM) content, compared to the other Asteraceae species. These results provide evidence of the phytotoxic activity of the three wild Asteraceae members and suggest their possible future exploitation as potential bioherbicides for sustainable weed management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Free from Herbicides: Ecological Weed Control)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

14 pages, 941 KiB  
Review
Digital Tools and Decision Support Systems in Agroecology: Benefits, Challenges, and Practical Implementations
by Dimitra Petraki, Ioannis Gazoulis, Metaxia Kokkini, Marios Danaskos, Panagiotis Kanatas, Andreas Rekkas and Ilias Travlos
Agronomy 2025, 15(1), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15010236 - 18 Jan 2025
Viewed by 686
Abstract
Farmers are increasingly faced with challenges such as climate change, population growth, and the need for sustainable food production, while simultaneously having to address the environmental impacts of conventional agriculture. Agroecology has emerged as a holistic and sustainable approach to agriculture, integrating environmental, [...] Read more.
Farmers are increasingly faced with challenges such as climate change, population growth, and the need for sustainable food production, while simultaneously having to address the environmental impacts of conventional agriculture. Agroecology has emerged as a holistic and sustainable approach to agriculture, integrating environmental, social, and economic principles. This study investigates the role of digital tools, including decision support systems (DSSs), in supporting agroecological transitions. Through a literature review and analysis of case studies, this paper examines the benefits and challenges associated with the adoption of digital tools in agroecology, highlighting their potential to promote sustainable practices such as soil and water management, pest control, and efficient resource use. The findings indicate that while digital solutions offer significant potential to enhance productivity and improve environmental outcomes, their adoption remains limited due to barriers such as low digital literacy, lack of infrastructure, and concerns about effectiveness in real-world farming conditions. Despite these challenges, digital solutions offer significant potential to enhance productivity, improve environmental outcomes, and support farmers’ decision-making. To comprehensively understand their benefits, a holistic approach is necessary, combining digital tools with hands-on training, policy support, and ongoing research. This paper highlights the role of digital tools in agroecology, explores their benefits and challenges, and discusses the need for continued research to assess their long-term potential in terms of the agroecological transition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Free from Herbicides: Ecological Weed Control)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-5
Back to TopTop