Maize is highly susceptible to weed interference, with losses ranging from 30 to 100 percent. Weeds are one of the most significant biotic stress factors affecting corn crops. In the context of climate change, shifts in the structure of the weed community, and the emergence of herbicide tolerance and resistance, evaluating herbicide efficacy under local agroecological conditions is essential for updating control strategies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of post-emergence herbicides with different modes of action (ALS and HPPD) in controlling the dominant weed community in maize crops. The experiment was conducted (in 2025) using a randomized block design in the town of Giarmata Vii, Timiș County. Four post-emergence herbicides were tested in the experiment, and their efficacy was assessed 14 and 28 days after application. The herbicides used in the experiment were: Principal Forte (ALS), Laudis (HPPD), Elumis (ALS + HPPD), and Capreno (ALS + HPPD). The efficacy of the herbicides in controlling weed flora was determined using the Abbott formula. The dominant species in the experimental treatments were: Xanthium strumarium, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, and Sorghum halepense, which exerted competitive pressure on the corn crop. The results showed that weed density was significantly reduced by the dual-action ALS and HPPD herbicides, Elumis (90%) and Capreno (95%). The perennial dicotyledons Convolvulus arvensis (35–65%) and Asclepias syriaca (18–30%) exhibited high tolerance to all tested herbicides; the herbicides’ efficacy was limited to the aboveground parts without destroying the underground vegetative organs.

weed control; herbicide efficacy; weed flora; post-emergence; Sorghum halepense

agronomy

Presentation: poster