Effect of different weed control methods on productivity of Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) - chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cropping sequence

A field experiment was conducted during 2018–19 and 2019–20 at Parbhani, Maharashtra to evaluate the efficacy of different weed control methods in a Bt cotton–chickpea cropping sequence. Seven weed management treatments were assessed, including pre-emergence, post-emergence herbicides, hand weeding, and a weed-free control. Results revealed that the weed-free treatment and post-emergence application of pyrithiobac sodium + quizalofop-ethyl followed by hand weeding achieved the highest weed control efficiency, seed cotton yield, gross and net monetary returns, and B:C ratio. The weedy check consistently resulted in the lowest values for all economic and agronomic parameters. The study concludes that integrated weed management using herbicides with hand weeding is a viable approach to maximize productivity and profitability in Bt cotton–chickpea systems.