Simulation of integrated control strategies for Orobanche spp. based on a life cycle model

A computer simulation model was developed to investigate strategies for con trol of the parasitic weed species of Orobanche. The model makes use of dat a from published literature and predicts infestation levels in a dynamic an d deterministic way. It is predicted that sustainable control of the parasi te can only be achieved by reducing the soil seed bank to levels of 1000-20 00 seeds m(-2) and maintaining it at that level in subsequent years. When c ultural control methods such as hand weeding, trap/lcatch cropping, delayed planting, resistant cultivars and solarization were considered individuall y, a relatively high level of effectiveness was required to contain the soi l seed bank. An integrated approach with a selection of appropriate cultura l methods is therefore recommended for further testing and validation in th e field. The simulations demonstrate the importance of preventing new seeds entering the soil seed bank and that although reducing the soil seed bank may not increase yield for the first few years, it will ultimately increase production.