Allelopathic effects of plant-based bioinputs on control of alien <i>Eragrostis plana</i> (Poaceae) on Pampa grasslands

Abstract Biodiversity has suffered from various threats associated with human land use. One significant threat is the spread of exotic plant species. A current paradigm is to develop effective management strategies to eradicate exotic plants with minimal impact on ecosystems. Commonly used strategies, such as manual removal or chemical treatments, often pose risks to biodiversity. Alternatively, some studies have highlighted the allelopathic effects of some plant species in controlling exotic or weed species. We investigated the potential allelopathic effects of two plant species (Baccharis crispa and Melaleuca alternifolia) on the seed germination and seedling performance of Eragrostis plana. We used bioinputs derived from essential oils of these two plant species in different concentrations. Our results indicated a significant difference in germination rates over the experimental period, with decreased rates observed in E. plana seeds exposed to both plant bioinputs compared with the control treatment. Additionally, the overall germination percentage and seedling performance were lower in seeds exposed to both bioinputs. Allelopathic properties of the bioinputs were evident in their ability to inhibit the growth of invasive E. plana. Moreover, the bioinputs could be used as an alternative method for exotic plant control, mitigating negative effects on plant communities commonly associated with usual techniques.