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Herbicidal activity of a medicinal plant, Peganum harmala L., and decomposition dynamics of its phytotoxins in the soil

Herbicidal activity of a medicinal plant, Peganum harmala L., and decomposition dynamics of its phytotoxins in the soil

Authors :
Sodaeizadeh, Hamid
Rafieiolhossaini, Mohammad
Van Damme, Patrick
Source :
Industrial Crops & Products. Mar2010, Vol. 31 Issue 2, p385-394. 10p.
Publication Year :
2010

Abstract

Abstract: This study evaluates the herbicidal potential of Peganum harmala L. (Zygophyllaceae) residues on seedling growth of Avena fatua L. (Poaceae) and Convolvulus arvensis L. (Convolvulaceae), and decomposition dynamics of its phytotoxins in the soil. Results show that among the different P. harmala plant parts used, leaves were the most toxic and caused the greatest negative effect on seedling length, seedling dry weight, leaf area and chlorophyll content of A. fatua and C. arvensis. Both weed species differed in their sensitivity to P. harmala residues. Higher reduction in plant growth parameters occurred in C. arvensis. In the presence of charcoal and depending on source of residue, receiver plants or amount of residues, the inhibitory effects of P. harmala on both test plants were eliminated or significantly reduced. Total phenolic acid content was higher in soil amended with leaf residues than that of soils with stem or root residues. Our findings revealed that a higher inhibitory effect P. harmala residues on both target species was obtained when weed seeds were sown 1 or 3 days after residue decomposition in the soil started. Total phenolic contents were maximum in the soil 1 day after decomposition, whereas phenolic amounts rapidly decreased with increasing decomposition. In conclusion, P. harmala residues had potent herbicidal activity and could be used as a natural herbicide for weed control. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
09266690
Volume :
31
Issue :
2
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Industrial Crops & Products
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
48256841
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2009.12.006