Allelopathic potential of sesame plant leachate against Cyperus rotundus L.

The effect of sesame leachate on the sprouting, growth and biochemical parameters of purple nutsedge was studied. The photosynthetic pigments, protein, sugar, lipid peroxidation and superoxide dismutase were considered as indicator for the estimation of effects of various concentration of leachate on the health of purple nutsedge plant. Allelochemicals present in sesame leachate inhibited sprouting of tubers of the nutsedge. In the pot culture numbers of leaves, plant height, dry weight, the photosynthetic pigments Chl a, Chl b and carotenoids and protein decreased with the increase in the concentration of sesame leaf leachate. Amount of malondialdehyde recorded maximum value in 100% concentration of the leachate. The activity of superoxide dismutase decreased in the highest concentration of leachate which indicated the failure of antioxidant defense. The leachate of sesame influenced biophysical and biochemical parameters. The decrease in growth, photosynthetic pigment, activity of antioxidant reflects that sesame leachate may help control growth of obnoxious weed, Cyperus rotundus L. It contributed to the development of new cropping system based on use of sesame as bioherbicide to control weeds. It may help reduce the use of weedicides and pesticides for the sustainable agriculture.