Shubhangi Singh, Abdul Mazeed, Saba Siddiqui, V.P. Singh, Abhineet, Ekta Singh and Shashi Bhushan
Abstract
Herbicides play a critical role in sugarcane production, enhancing crop yield by controlling aggressive weeds. However, the long-term accumulation of herbicide residues, particularly from compounds like atrazine, diuron, and glyphosate, poses significant risks to soil health, microbial diversity, and future crop productivity. These residues can persist in soil for extended periods, adversely affecting soil fertility, disrupting nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and impairing subsequent crop growth. In ratoon crops like sugarcane, repeated herbicide applications exacerbate these effects, leading to delayed emergence, reduced root development, and decreased biomass production. Furthermore, herbicide residues can leach into water bodies, causing environmental contamination and impacting aquatic biodiversity. This study highlights the need for sustainable weed management practices, such as integrated weed management (IWM), bioremediation, and the adoption of cover crops, to mitigate the negative impacts of herbicide residues. By implementing these strategies, sugarcane growers can reduce their reliance on chemical herbicides while protecting soil and environmental health for long-term productivity.