Impact of weed control methods on corn yield and soil fertility conservation

¹ Samarkand State University Veterinary Medicine, Livestock And Biotechnology, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
² South Ural State Agrarian University, Troitsk, Russia
³ Belgorod State Agricultural University named after V.Ya. Gorin, Mayskiy, Belgorod region, Russia
⁴ Kuban State Agrarian University named after I.T. Trubilin, Krasnodar, Russia
⁵ Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia

^* Corresponding author: j.rajabov@ssuv.uz

Abstract

The study analyzes various weed control methods and their impact on corn yield and soil fertility. The research was conducted in the steppe region, where weed infestation is a major concern for agricultural productivity. Mechanical and chemical treatments were applied across experimental plots to assess their effectiveness in reducing weed biomass and enhancing crop performance. It was determined that uncontrolled weed growth significantly affects pollination and grain productivity of corn, reducing yields by up to 47.8%. The most effective control was achieved by combining herbicides with limited mechanical cultivation, which ensured optimal moisture, nutrient, and light conditions for corn growth. The study also examined the effects of herbicides on soil fertility, noting a positive correlation between reduced weed biomass and improved soil nutrient retention. Overall, the research highlights the importance of integrated weed management practices in sustaining high crop yields while preserving soil health. The results contribute to the ongoing development of sustainable agricultural systems in regions facing similar ecological challenges. The findings suggest that a balanced combination of chemical and mechanical weed control can optimize both crop production and long-term soil fertility.