Effect of weed interference duration and weed-free period on glufosinate-resistant rice was evaluated in 1998 and 1999. Weed interference for more than 2 wk reduced plant height 12 wk after emergence compared with the season-long weed-free treatment. Grain yield loss of 1,090 to 4,880 kg/ha was observed when weeds were allowed to interfere with rice from 2 wk to season-long. The weed-free period study indicated that early control of weeds could sustain rice growth and yield potential. This research suggests that effective weed control from 1 to 6 wk after rice emergence is important in fields with high weed densities for maximizing yield potential of glufosinate-resistant rice.
