Effect of weeding methods and weeding time on flushing and flowering of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) in South-Eastern, Tanzania

BACKGROUND: Weeds are important biotic agents that have a big impact on plant yields and growth. In southern Tanzania, the timing and effects of weeding were studied in relation to cashew flushing and flowering. METHODS: For the study, three cashew development centers (CDC) were chosen. Herbicides, manual hoeing (tillage), slashing, and scratching were the four weeding methods allocated. Two clones (AC4 and AZA17) of cashew trees that were 10 years old were treated. Phase 1 (after harvest), Phase 2 (during the rainy season), and Phase 3 (before to flushing of the cashew flowers) are the three distinct weeding phases. RESULTS: Compared to other approaches, hand hoeing (field tillage) significantly (p < 0.05) influenced early cashew flushing and blooming. Slashing was least effective, followed by hand hoeing and the application of herbicides. Phase 1 had a substantial (p < 0.05) impact on the flushing of cashews and Phases 1 and 2 had the greatest (p < 0.05) and least (p < 0.01) effects on cashew flushing and blooming, respectively. Both the weeding techniques and the weeding time had no effect on the cashew clones (p > 0.05). Compared to other techniques, hand hoeing required a lot of time. CONCLUSION: It is often advised to weed through soil opening during wet seasons because it improves and hastens the occurrence of the factors that determine cashew yields (flushing and blooming). However, additional research is advised on the role that timely weeding and weeding techniques have in improving cashew yields along different cashew tree ages in southern Tanzania.