Ecology and non-chemical control of Rumex crispus and R. obtusifolius (Polygonaceae): a review

Summary

Rumex crispus and R. obtusifolius are among the most important perennial weeds in agriculture throughout the world. This literature survey revealed that the majority of studies on Rumex ecology, which were conducted under field conditions are of a descriptive nature, while experimental studies mainly report data derived under laboratory or greenhouse conditions. Areas on Rumex ecology which deserve more research include: historical development of Rumex infestations, field studies on seed and root ecology, population ecology, Rumex longevity, and impacts of global climate change on the performance of these species. Although biological, mechanical and cultural control methods were often effective in controlling Rumex populations, they were rarely successful enough to eradicate the weeds. As both species are considered to be indicators of agricultural mismanagement, there is a definite need for well-replicated, full-factorial, long-term field experiments to assess the role of management factors most often stated to be responsible for Rumex infestation and distribution (e.g. high soil N and K levels, slurry and farmyard manure application, sward disturbance, cutting frequency, grazing management, ploughing, soil compaction). It is recommended that future research on non-chemical Rumex control should focus more on the efficacy of combined applications of biological, mechanical and cultural control methods.