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Evaluation Of Flame Weeding In Southeastern South Dakota, Benjamin William Arlt

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Weed management is the main yield-limiting factor in production of organic crops. Currently, organic producers have limited resources available for in-row weed management. Flame weeding has been recognized for its potential as one part of an integrated approach at weed management in organic systems. Flame weeding uses propane fueled torches to heat plant tissue and denature proteins, thus injuring or destroying the affected tissue. When properly timed, flame weeding can effectively be used for weed control in corn and soybean fields. Corn and soybean have both shown tolerances to flame weeding and minimal yield loss with well-managed and timed flame …