Extracts and Residues of Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) Cause Alterations in Root and Shoot Growth of Crops

Following the novel weapon hypothesis, the invasiveness of non-native species, such as common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.) can result from a loss of natural competitors due to the production of chemical compounds, which negatively affect native communities. Particularly the genus Ambrosia produces several types of organic compounds, which have the potential to inhibit germination and growth of other plants. Subsequent to an assessment of the chemical content of three different ragweed extracts (aqueous shoot and root extracts, as well as essential oil), two different trials on the effects of different concentrations of these extracts, as well as ragweed residues, were conducted on two different mediums (Petri dish vs. soil). In addition, we investigated the impact on the infection potential of Bradyrhizobium japonicum on soybean roots in three different soil types (arable soil, potting soil, and sand). The results showed that the exposure to common ragweed extracts and residues induced changes in the biomass and root production of crops and ragweed itself. Even though crops and ragweed differed in their response behavior, the strongest negative impact on all crops and ragweed was observed with ragweed residues, leading to reductions in biomass and root growth of up to 90%. Furthermore, we found a decrease in the number of rhizobial nodules of up to 48% when soybean was exposed to ragweed root extract.