Agroecological weed management in citrus

Weeds are one of the main pests in citrus orchards. Nearly 20 weed species were recorded as the main weeds. Chemical weed control is the most preferable method to control them because of its easy use and quick result. As in several crops, to reduce the environmental side effects of herbicides, to solve resistance problems and to provide sustainability in citrus orchards, it is necessary the use agroecological management methods. Cover crops, mulching and mowing were the most effective ways to manage weeds. Experiments show that cover crops (the most effective species respectively; radish (Raphanus sativus L.), rye (Seceale cereale L.), hairy vetch (Vicia villosa L.)) reduced the weed density and coverage (%). Mulch textile as a mulching material was the most efficient to regulate weed populations. It also reduced water losses and helped to control other pests. Mowing by a weed trimmer could be used in small sized orchards or in citrus tree rows. All these weed management methods will control noxious weed species and protect beneficial flora and fauna in a citrus agroecosystem.