Chemical Weed Management in Sesame: A Review

Abstract

This review aims to consolidate and critically examine the studies conducted on different pre- and post-emergence herbicides evaluated for their effectiveness in weed management in sesame, with a focus on their impact on weed suppression, crop growth, and yield performance. Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) holds significant importance as an edible oilseed crop next to groundnut, rapeseed and mustard in India. Sesame is the oldest oil seed crop known to human beings and has been used by humans since ancient past. In 2023–24, it was cultivated on 15.31 lakh hectares with a production of 8.47 lakh tonnes and a productivity of 553 kg ha⁻¹. Weed infestation, especially during the early growth stages due to sesame’s slow initial growth, can reduce yields by 64% to 95.9%. Effective weed management during the critical period of 15–30 days after sowing is vital. Chemical control offers efficiency and scalability. Pre-emergence herbicides like alachlor, pendimethalin, and pyroxasulfone suppress early weeds, while post-emergence herbicides such as quizalofop-p-ethyl, clethodim, and propaquizafop target grassy weeds. However, selective options for broadleaf weeds remain limited due to crop sensitivity. The review emphasises recent research on herbicide efficacy and crop safety, promoting integrated weed management for sustainable sesame production. Future research should focus on identifying selective post-emergence herbicides for broadleaf weeds and promoting integrated weed management approaches. Combining chemical, mechanical, and cultural methods can ensure sustainable and efficient weed control, ultimately improving sesame productivity and sustainability.