Allelopathic Effects of Kochia on Blue Grama

Abstract

The allelopathic effects of kochia aqueous extracts found in kochia (Kochia scoparia L. Roth.) on seed germination and seedling growth of blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis [H.B.K.] Lag.) were studied in laboratory experiments. Extracts were from regrowth, whole tops, leaves, and stems, representing the vegetative and reproductive phenologies. Inhibition of seed germination did not occur. However, seedling radicle and shoot growth were significantly (P<0.05) affected. Inhibition declined significantly with concentrations of the solutions and advancing phenological stage. Similarly, hot water extracts inhibited growth more than cold water extracts. The data suggest possible inhibitory effects of kochia litter under field conditions, but detailed studies are lacking.