Allelopathic Interactions in Vegetable Production Systems: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives

The need to investigate ecological and sustainable approaches to weed management, as well as to reduce the negative environmental impact of chemical herbicides, is becoming increasingly important in modern agriculture and land management. Among alternative strategies, allelopathy is a natural mechanism by which particular plant species release bioactive compounds that can influence the germination, growth, and development of neighboring plants. Harnessing allelopathic interactions offers an opportunity to develop environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic herbicides and helps preserve ecological balance within agroecosystems. This review examines the potential of allelopathic plant-derived substances for weed control in agricultural systems, with particular emphasis on managing weed populations in vegetable crops and gardens in urban and peri-urban areas. This study introduces the concept of allelopathy with definitions and general information. Subsequently, the paper analyzes the phenomenon’s presence at the plant level, its interactions, and the extracts obtained from allelopathic plants. The paper focuses on essential oils and fatty acid-derived compounds, such as pelargonic acid, which have demonstrated significant inhibitory effects on weed germination and biomass accumulation. Overall, the presented results establish a scientific basis for developing bioherbicides and support implementing sustainable, environmentally responsible horticultural practices.