2024, Vol. 7, Special Issue 3

The study at ICAR-CPCRI, Kasaragod, Kerala investigates weed flora and ground vegetation structure in a coconut garden with varied spacings, focusing on documenting weed diversity and density. Three coconut plots, with spacings of 4x4 m, 6x6 m, and a standard of 7.5x7.5 m, were examined. Results revealed 39 plant species across 16 families. In the 4x4 m spacing plot, 26 weed species from 13 families were observed, with Amaranthaceae as the most dominant, followed by Asteraceae and Fabaceae. The average weed density was 100 plants/m2. The 6x6m spacing plot exhibited 21 weed species from 11 families, with Poaceae dominating, followed by Asteraceae and an average weed density of 148.50 plants/m². The standard 7.5x7.5 m spacing plot recorded 16 weed species, with the highest belonging to the Poaceae family, followed by Malvaceae and an average weed density of 71.75 plants/m². While the 4x4 m spacing plot had the highest number of weed species, the 6x6m spacing plot had the highest weed density, and the 7.5x7.5m spacing plot exhibited fewer weed species and density. Variation in light penetration, shade due to spacing differences influences weed species diversity and density. This study has practical utility in adopting appropriate weed management strategies in coconut cultivation.