Diversity and Population of Weed Propagule in Two Rice Cropping Systems

Abstract

Weeds can reduce rice yields by 20-89%, mainly due to competition for nutrients, water, sunlight, and growing space. Weeds that grow in rice fields come from propagules previously in the soil. Seedlings are formed from the previous season, so the cultivation system greatly affects them. This study aims to determine the diversity and population of weed propagules in upland rice and lowland rice. This research was conducted by survey method in Semanu District, Gunungkidul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta, by taking soil samples from three plots of upland rice and lowland rice paddy. Soil sampling was conducted four times before tillage, 3, 6, and 9 weeks after planting. The results showed that the diversity of weed propagules in upland rice was higher than in lowland rice fields with more weed propagule species. Annual terrestrial weed propagules dominate in upland rice, while in lowland rice fields, it is dominated by annual aquatic weed propagules. The diversity index of weed propagules in upland rice and rice paddy is included in the medium criteria. The number of species and individual propagule weeds in upland rice is more than in the upland rice fields. The results of this study can be used as a basis for proper weed management so that it does not disturb and harm rice plants.