Organically and conventionally grown peppermint (Mentha x piperita L.): As affected by weeds

Abstract

This study was performed in order to assess weed flora diversity in organic and conventional peppermint (Mentha x piperita L.) in the second year of growing, and to compare the effects of the two production systems on peppermint traits of agronomic importance. Weed control was not carried out in a season in which the survey was conducted (2014). Comparatively high weed floristic diversity was noted for organically maintained crop, with even five species that are invasive for Vojvodina region occurring in this system only. Therophyte life form dominated in both crops. Concerning the characteristics that are directly related to yield, conventionally grown peppermint outperformed the organic one, except for leaf essential oil content. In order to provide high yield and quality of organic peppermint, regular mechanical weed control and the use of appropriate organic fertilizers would be of the great importance.

Keywords

• mentha x piperita
• weed flora
• organic production
• conventional production