Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part B (2025)

Weeds pose a significant threat to cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) cultivation by competing for nutrients, water, and light, ultimately reducing productivity and crop quality. This study evaluated the impact of different weed management practices on nutrient dynamics and yield performance of cauliflower. Field experiments were conducted using randomized block design with treatments including pre-emergence herbicides, hand weeding, mulching, and an untreated control. Observations were recorded for weed density, nutrient uptake (N, P, K), curd weight, marketable yield, and harvest index. Results indicated that integrated weed management combining pre-emergence herbicides with manual weeding significantly reduced weed density (by 72%) and improved nutrient uptake efficiency. Cauliflower curd weight increased by 24.6% under integrated weed management compared to control. Mulching treatments also enhanced soil moisture retention and nutrient availability, leading to higher yields than herbicide-only treatments. The study concludes that integrated weed management not only suppresses weed growth but also enhances nutrient use efficiency and improves the yield performance of cauliflower, making it a sustainable approach for intensive vegetable production systems.