OPTIMIZING AND PROMOTING MECHANICAL WEED CONTROL IN ARABLE CROPS

Within an overall strategy of weed flora management, mechanical weed control practices are complementary solutions to agronomic levers (crop rotation, tillage...) in weed control. Acquiring knowledge and communicating on the effectiveness of mechanical practices and tools appear essential. The "Mechanical Weed Control" project in France conducted between 2009 and 2012 made progress in this regard. The project shows that research activities are to be continued (experimentation, analysis of practices) and should be complemented by promotion that focuses on participatory approaches where farmers are involved in the implementation of these new practices