| Summary: | New Ploughing Effects on Cyperus rotundus L. in New Caledonia. I. Effects of Rotary Hoe and Circular Spike Harrow. Because of the biology of Cyperus rotundus, the worst weed in vegetable crops in New Caledonia, tillage may imply positive or negative effects on it's development. Consequently, in two fields with low and high densities of C. rotundus, a study was undertaken of the impact of a rotary hoe (Rotavator) and a circular spike harrow during new ploughing on the state and the distribution in the soil of tubers and chains of tubers. The main effect of the circular spike harrow, with its round teeth, is to bring tubers up to the surface. The rotary hoe, with its blades, cuts off more tubers and chains of tubers than the circular spike harrow, especially in field with a high weed invasion. By cutting off the chains of tubers, the rotary hoe can stimulate new growth of C. rotundus, consequently the frequent use of the rotary hoe may rapidly increase the numbers of tubers in the soil. These results give a better understanding of the effects of mechanical practices on the development and growth of C. rotundus and lay the groundwork for an effective weed integrated management in New Caledonia.
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