Yield and Quality Constraints of Cabbage Planted in Rye Mulch

Living Mulch as a Tool to Control Weeds in Agroecosystems: A Review

“…Yield loss in transplanted cabbage due to competition with the living mulch for light or moisture was also recorded by Bottenberg et al (1997).…”

Weed Management Systems for No-Tillage Vegetable Production

“…However, LMs, such as perennial ryegrass, sorghum, and clovers compete with vegetable crops for light, moisture and nutrients (Shennan 1992). Bottenberg et al (1997) and Masuinas et al (1997) indicated that perennial ryegrass provided a better LM than did red clover in cabbage production; perennial ryegrass did not grow above the cabbage foliage, but the growth of red clover was able to overtop the cabbage which restricted light from reaching the crop canopy causing yield reductions. The application of low herbicide rates may reduce the competitiveness of LMs, allowing their use in vegetable production.…”

“…These reductions in crop yields are often due to the direct competition between the cover crop and the main crop. Although Masiunas et al (1997) found that a hairy vetch LM established before transplanting cabbage would suppress weeds, it would eventually grow above the cabbage canopy later in the growing season and reduce yields. The delayed seeding of cover crops has been an effective means of minimizing yield losses in many crops including broccoli .…”

“…Masiunas et al (1997) indicated that the cropping system utilized affected both broadleaf and grass weed densities in NT cabbage production. Although winter rye mulch is often utilized in NT cabbage production, Morse & Seward (1986) indicated that hairy vetch and Austrian winter pea [Pisum sativum spp.…”

“…], or morningglory (Ipomoea spp.). Furthermore, Masiunas et al (1997) and Derken et al (1993) indicated that prostrate pigweed (Amaranthus blitoides S. Wats.)…”