The Effects of Mulch Textile Application on Weed Control and Mandarin Growing in Newly Established Mandarin Orchard

Abstract

In this study, material that we call mulch textile was investigated as compared with conventional polyethylene mulch nylon and mechanical and chemical control that are widely used in farmer‘s conditions to weed control in newly established citrus orchards. Two different thickness of polyethylene mulch, three different thickness of mulch textiles, mowing and herbicide (glyphosate) applications were made in newly established mandarin orchard in a three-year-period (2004-2005-2006). Effects of the applications on density and coverage of weeds and height, stem thickness and leaf area of cultural plants were investigated. According to general evaluation of results of the study, mowing 23.4%, chemical control 88.4%, polyethylene mulch 99.6%, mulch textiles 100% controlled weeds than weedy control. At the most increase of height, stem thickness and leaf area of mandarin was obtained from herbicide and mulch treatments. It was determined that soil temperature and moisture are preserved by mulch applications.