Effects of different inorganic mulches on seed germination, weed biomass and plant growth

A. Hanim, A. Nazera, S. Ab Kahar and M.N. Hamdan

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of several types of inorganic mulch such as sand, gravel and quarry dust on seed germination of annual multi species and weed growth through direct sowing technique in the urban landscape. Results showed that sand, gravel and quarry dust gave significant effect on the percentage seed germination of annual multi species such as Catharanthus roseus (70%), Coreopsis tinctoria (20%), Cosmos sulphureus (95%), Gomphrena haageana (70%) and Impatiens balsamina (60%). The total weed biomass per quadrat was significantly less in the plots treated with gravel (15.12 g), quarry dust (21.56 g) and sand (30.45 g) mulches compared to the control, without mulch (64.41 g). The use of inorganic mulches inhibited germination of weed seeds in the soil which often competes with sown seeds in creating an annual multi species plant community through direct sowing. Multi species grown on various mulch types produce flowers at different time and period depending on the species which resulted in prolonging flowering (4 – 5 months) and attractive plant combination in the garden.

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