Biology and Management of Weeds in Peanut

Weeds play a major role in determining yield and the efficiency of production practices in peanut (Arachis hypogagea L.), and effective and long-lasting weed management must be based on the biology of the weeds and the proper implementation of control practices. The present review provides a thorough description of weed control tools available in peanut and the different biotic, abiotic, and management factors that determine the outcome of their use. Also, current and future challenges for weed management in peanut are discussed based on principles of integration of pest control practices and agronomic efficiency. The overall analysis of the information available indicates that peanut weed management success must be assessed over several years considering the dynamics of the soil seed bank. For this reason, weed pressure in peanut is highly dependent on weed control in the other rotational crops. This is particularly evident in the way weeds that evolved herbicide resistance in other crops reduced the number of herbicides that are effective in peanut. Although herbicides continue being the most important weed control in peanut, it is likely that the addition of alternative practices such as cover cropping, and precision management technologies will be necessary to ensure adequate weed control over time.