Fecundity and maternal effects on Palmer amaranth height following season‐long interference in corn, cotton, and peanut

Abstract

Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri Watson) is one of the most difficult‐to‐control weeds in several economically‐important crops in the US. Growth characteristics of Palmer amaranth can be affected by cropping system. Research was conducted in North Carolina in 2019 to determine height and seed production of Palmer amaranth grown season long in presence of corn (Zea mays L.), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), and peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Research was also conducted to determine transgenerational effects due to interference from these crops. Palmer amaranth produced more seed when grown with cotton (17 times greater) and peanut (12 times greater) compared with corn; no difference was noted between cotton and peanut. Palmer amaranth height in the field at physiological maturity was similar in corn (80 inches) and cotton (77 inches) and taller than height in peanut (63 inches). When progeny from plants in the field were grown in the greenhouse in absence of crop interference, differences in height of progeny and height of the mother plant in presence of crop interference were ranked similarly with respect to crop. Palmer amaranth height in presence of corn and cotton was similar (57 and 58 inches, respectively) and exceeded height when the weed was grown with peanut (51 inches). These results demonstrate transgenerational effects due to previous crop (e.g., corn, cotton, and peanut) for Palmer amaranth.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved