Allelopathic potential of leaf and green fruits of jackbean extracts (Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC.)

Abstract

Crop rotation is a good alternative for cropping systems, with increased productivity, improved
soil properties and decreased use of agrochemicals. A good type of cover, in rotation, should
present rapid establishment and development, good biomass production and allelopathic potential.
Knowledge and management of allelopathy can assist the farmer with benefits in his
production system by inhibiting or controlling weed infestation. Extracts of leaves and green
fruits of jackbean were evaluated, and these presented high allelopathic potential. The extracts
did not allow the formation of normal seedlings in lettuce and morning glory. The predominance
of abnormal seedling formation and seed death was observed, and extracts of green fruits
compared to leaf extracts were more harmful in the species tested. Jackbean extracts present
high potential for the prospection of bio-herbicides.