Project details

The project Environmental Friendly Control of Ambrosia artemisiifolia with Phenolic Acids Combined with Reduced Herbicide Dose (IP-2022-10-6639), abbreviated as PHENOMENA, is funded by the Croatian Science Foundation. Officially launched on December 21, 2023, the project will run until December 20, 2027.

The project is led by Full Professor Maja Šćepanović, Head of the Department of Weed Science at the University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture. PHENOMENA represents a collaborative effort, uniting researchers from diverse institutions. This includes colleagues from the University of Zagreb and the University of Osijek in Croatia, the University of Novi Sad in Serbia, and the University of Catania in Italy.

Learn more about the research team [here].

The Effect of Phenolic Acids on Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.: Sustainable Weed Management Solutions

Weed management is a major challenge for sustainable agriculture, with herbicide use posing long-term risks to both the environment and human health. Alternative, eco-friendly approaches are increasingly sought, among which phenolic acids have gained attention for their potential to inhibit weed growth. This research investigates the impact of phenolic acids on the germination and early growth of Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. (common ragweed), a highly invasive weed known for its ability to spread rapidly and outcompete crops. By exploring the potential use of phenolic acids in sustainable weed management, this study seeks to contribute to the development of herbicide-reduced or herbicide-free agricultural systems.

1. Background and Rationale

A. artemisiifolia is a widespread and problematic weed, particularly in agricultural regions where it reduces crop yields and negatively impacts biodiversity. The use of synthetic herbicides to control A. artemisiifolia has led to concerns about resistance development, environmental contamination, and the loss of beneficial microorganisms in the soil. As a result, there is a growing interest in developing integrated weed management strategies that reduce reliance on chemical herbicides.

Phenolic acids, naturally occurring compounds found in plants, have demonstrated phytotoxic effects that may inhibit weed seed germination and early growth. Some phenolic acids also show promise in reducing the toxicity of herbicides when used in combination, allowing for the use of lower herbicide doses. These compounds may also interact with soil microorganisms and contribute to soil health, promoting a balanced microbial ecosystem that supports crop growth while limiting weed establishment.

2. Hypothesis and Objectives

The main hypothesis is that phenolic acids can effectively inhibit the germination and early growth of A. artemisiifolia, and that their use in combination with reduced doses of herbicides will lead to enhanced weed control without compromising crop productivity or soil health.

The objectives of this study are:

• To assess the inhibitory effects of different phenolic acids on A. artemisiifolia germination and early growth.

• To investigate the effects of phenolic acids on soil microbiota and fauna, focusing on beneficial organisms such as beneficial insects, mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

• To evaluate the potential synergistic effects of combining phenolic acids with reduced doses of commonly used herbicides on weed control.

• To examine the selectivity of different crops towards phenolic acids, ensuring that their application does not negatively affect crop yield.

3. Methodology

In Vitro Studies:
Solutions of phenolic acids will be prepared at various concentrations and applied to A. artemisiifolia seeds in Petri dishes to assess their effects on seed germination and early growth. A selection of phenolic acids, naturally occurring in Brassicaceae cover crops, will be tested.

In Vivo Studies:
Greenhouse trials will be conducted to evaluate the impact of foliar application of phenolic acids on A. artemisiifolia. Reduced herbicide doses will be applied in combination with phenolic acids to examine their synergistic effects. In the final phase, the most effective combinations of phenolic acids and reduced herbicide doses will be tested in field trials to assess crop selectivity (maize and soybean).

Soil Microbiota and Fauna:
Soil samples will be collected at multiple time points to assess the impact of phenolic acids and reduced herbicide doses. Microbial diversity will be analyzed using 16S rRNA and ITS sequencing, while soil enzyme activities (e.g., dehydrogenase, phosphatase) will indicate microbial activity. Soil fauna, including nematodes and microarthropods, will be extracted and quantified using standard methods.

4. Expected Outcomes and Significance

This research is expected to provide valuable insights into the potential of phenolic acids as sustainable weed management tools. The findings will contribute to understanding how phenolic acids interact with A. artemisiifolia, soil microorganisms, and beneficial fauna, as well as how they can be integrated into herbicide-reduced agricultural practices. Additionally, the study will highlight the selective nature of phenolic acids, ensuring that crops are not adversely affected while weeds are suppressed.

Ultimately, this research aims to:

• Provide a sustainable alternative to chemical herbicides for controlling A. artemisiifolia.

• Contribute to the development of integrated pest management strategies that are environmentally friendly and reduce dependence on synthetic chemicals.

• Promote soil health and the preservation of beneficial microbial communities, fostering a more sustainable approach to farming.