Alternativas de manejo associadas à resistência de plantas daninhas a herbicidas em mandioca e batata-doce em propriedades no município de Jandaíra/RN

Abstract

Cassava and sweet potato are highly important crops for both human and animal consumption, in addition to playing an essential role in the starch and flour industries. However, several factors hinder their productivity in Brazil, with inefficient weed control being one of the most significant. This issue is even more common in developing countries, where weeds establish themselves easily and farming practices typically rely on lower levels of technology. The emergence and spread of herbicide-resistant weeds have become a global challenge, directly affecting crop performance. In Brazil and various parts of the world, new cases of resistance have been frequently reported. Given this scenario, it is crucial to correctly identify invasive species in order to implement effective control strategies through Integrated Weed Management (IWM), thereby preventing the worsening of resistance in sweet potato and cassava plantations. With this purpose, this study mapped and quantified the presence of resistant weed species and provided control measures and management techniques for these crops, focusing on the Mato Grande region, specifically in the municipality of Jandaíra/RN. To achieve this, interviews were conducted with ten local farmers to gather information on past resistance cases, types of herbicides used, control methods applied, understanding of product labels, and application techniques adopted. The data collected significantly contributed to improving agricultural practices in the region, promoting increased productivity and offering solutions tailored to the reality of local farmers. Integrated Weed Management is essential in sweet potato and cassava farming, as resistant weeds were found in the fields of both crops. Rotating herbicide modes of action proved to be a farming practice that farmers accepted and found effective, as revealed during the interviews. Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including maintenance, cleaning, and replacement when necessary, is an indispensable safety measure that ensures the protection, well-being, and quality of life of rural workers.