Impact assessment of nutrient accumulation, yield losses, and the critical period of competition of invasive Alligatorweed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) in sunflower

Background: Alligatorweed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) is an invasive weed species whose increasing infestations challenge sunflower production under climate change settings. Objective: Evaluate the impact of A. philoxeroides at different competition durations on nutrient accumulation and sunflower production, and determine the critical period of weed competition (CPWC). Methods: Two-year yield study was executed with treatments including A. philoxeroides competition durations i.e. weed free conditions for first 21, 28, 35, 42 and 49 days after crop emergence along with a full season [...]