Possibilities and limitations of weed management in fruit crops of the temperate climate zone

Abstract

This manuscript contains information on the species composition of weed communities in orchards in Poland and other countries of the temperate climate zone. The manuscript deals with the influence of weeds on crops and the interaction between the weeds and other living organisms. The main methods of weed regulation are described. Characteristics of the particular crops – fruit trees and small fruits – and solutions that are either objects of study or have already been introduced into practice, are presented. Advantages and disadvantages of different methods of weed control are discussed, such as soil cultivation and tillage, cover crops, mulches, herbicide use, and flame burning.

Keywords

• cover crops
• herbicides
• mulches
• orchard
• small fruit plantations
• soil cultivation
• weeds