Impact of Varied Microwave Exposures on Weed Species

Abstract Purpose This study explores the efficacy of microwaves as a method for the control of three weed species particularly widespread and problematic in the Italian farms cultivating IV range crops. These findings, based on laboratory experiments, are part of a project (MOPAS Project—Microwaves for Sustainable Agriculture) meant to realize a prototype for use in real field situations. Methods Seeds from weed species ( Trifolium repens L., Portulaca oleracea L., and Solanum nigrum L.) were subjected to microwave treatments at 480 and 900 W power levels for 10 and 30 s. The impact on seed germination and ion leakage was assessed. Histological changes induced by microwaves were also examined through microscopic analysis. Results Significant germinability decreases were observed in S. nigrum and T. repens with increasing treatment duration and intensity. P. oleracea exhibited lower sensitivity, with detrimental effects only at the highest power levels suggesting that seed size and the associated differences in water absorption may play a crucial role in determining sensitivity to microwave exposure. S. nigrum membrane stability was affected only at the highest irradiation power, while all species showed increased ion leakage across treatments. Observations revealed wilting of stems and leaves, indicating cell turgidity loss in inner tissue layers. Conclusion Microwave radiation may be a non-chemical weed control strategy, though efficacy is influenced by variability in seed traits. Further research is necessary to optimize treatment parameters and assess scalability under field conditions. This approach holds potential for reducing herbicide use and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.