Early interference between cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) and narrow leaf ketmia (Hibiscus trionum var. trionum)

Abstract

Key findings •• Narrow leaf ketmia is a competitive weed during cotton’s early growth stage. •• Medium to high infestations of this species can reduce 40% of the root biomass of cotton seedlings. •• Cotton leaf size was reduced by 30% in the 50% cotton:50% narrow leaf ketmia treatment. •• The first square (first fruiting bud) can be delayed two days due to a heavy infestation of narrow leaf ketmia. •• The relative neighbouring effect of narrow leaf ketmia in roots of cotton seedling can be 0.5.