Detection of Weeds in Potted Ornamental Plants: Artvin Çoruh University Nursery

Abstract

This research was conducted to identify the weed species found in the production area of ​​ornamental plants grown in pots at Artvin Çoruh University Nursery, to determine their density and prevalence, and to develop sustainable weed management strategies based on the data obtained. In the study, carried out in 2024–2025, a total of 64 weed species belonging to 23 families were identified. The highest species percentages belonged to the Asteraceae family with 20.31% and the Poaceae family with 17.19%. Dominant species included Portulaca oleracea L., Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers., Polygonum aviculare L., Conyza canadensis L., Sinapis arvensis L., Setaria verticillata (L.) P.Beauv., Heliotropium europaeum L. and Polygonum aviculare L. The densities of the identified species ranged from 10.1 to 13.5 individuals/m². This situation reveals that dominant weeds in nursery production areas create significant competitive pressure on ornamental plants. Research findings indicate that weed management should focus particularly on dominant and highly competitive species. In this context, prioritizing integrated pest management practices is crucial to mitigate the current problems caused by weeds. This approach effectively controls dominant weeds, contributes to maintaining the quality and yield levels of ornamental plants, and provides a solid scientific foundation for developing sustainable, environmentally friendly, and economically efficient practices in nursery production.