Cyperus esculentusinterference inCucumis sativus

Field studies were conducted near Tifton, GA, from 1995 to 1997 to measureCyperus esculentus(yellow nutsedge) interference with ‘Fancipack’Cucumis sativus(cucumber) using a response prediction experiment with a natural infestation ofC. esculentus. Cucumis sativuswas direct-seeded each year. Plots (1.8 by 1.8 m) were established immediately after crop emergence.Cyperus esculentusplants were counted 2 wk after crop emergence in each plot, at which time four weed-free plots were randomly established.C. esculentusdensities ranged from 0 to 955 plants m−2. Total yield, plant biomass, andC. sativusstand were regressed againstC. esculentusdensity and biomass. Regression analysis showed a 5% reduction inC. sativusyield with aC esculentusinfestation of approximately 15 plants m−2. A uniformC. sativusstand maximized its competitive ability and minimized interference fromC. esculentus. Cyperus esculentuswas more competitive and reducedC. sativusyields whenC. sativusstands were low and nonuniform.