Investigation of the effect of various herbicides on the development of hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth.) and soil

Hairy vetch ( Vicia villosa Roth.) is a legume crop that is known for high biomass yield. Weed infestation can compromise crop production. Herbicide options are less researched. Pre- and post-emergently applied herbicides were assessed through NDVI and visual phytotoxicity. Due to limited data on herbicide effects on soil microorganisms, enzyme activity tests were conducted. The pre-emergently applied flumioxazin, clomazone, and metribuzin did not cause phytotoxicity, while pendimethalin caused mild symptoms. Post-emergence application of metazachlor + quinmerac, imazamox, and bentazon caused minimal phytotoxicity. The applied herbicides significantly affected the β-glucosidase activity (BGA) of the soil. Further testing is warranted with additional measurements and seed yield results.