The effect of beneng taro leaf extract (Xanthosoma undipes K. Koch) as a bioherbicide on the growth of Cyperus rotundus

Abstract

Teki weed (Cyperus rotundus) is among the most invasive weeds threatening agricultural productivity. This study aims to determine the effect of taro leaf extract (Xanthosoma undipes K. Koch) as a bioherbicide on the growth of teki weeds. The study used a Group Randomized Design (RAK) with six levels of extract concentration: T0 (Control), T1 (30%), T2 (45%), T3 (60%), T4 (75%), and T5 (90%). The parameters observed included weed height, weed wet weight, weed dry weight, and phytotoxicity level. The results of the fingerprint analysis showed that administering taro leaf extract had a very significant effect on weed height (14–28 DAT), wet weight, and weed dry weight. The T5 treatment (90%) gave the best results, with the lowest weed height of 23.40 cm, wet weight of 1.02 g, and dry weight of 0.28 g. The highest level of phytotoxicity was obtained at T5 with a value of 12% (moderate poisoning category). Thus, beneng taro leaf is a potential bioherbicide against teki weed.