Using phenology prediction in weed management: a review.

The success of weed management based on ecological principles and weed biology will depend on a better understanding of the effect of environment on lift history strategies, growth, and competition of weeds and crops, and particularly upon the ability to predict weed and crop phenology, This paper reviews the importance of phenotypic plasticity to weed and crop competition and other biological interactions. We also discuss the utility of phenological predictions in weed management and review current weed phenology models that are based on thermal time. By understanding the variables that drive plant phenotypic responses, new approaches and more long-term solutions for weed problems can be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]