Another Weed Species (Artimisia Vulgaris L.) Entered in Iraq

Abstract

Abstract: This study was conducted in Baghdad during 2006-2011 to identify and control a new weed entered into Iraq through the last few years .The new weed belong to composite family and identified as Mugwort (Artimisia Vulgaris L.) .This species is not common in Iraq. It was found that its seeds entered to Iraq with impure shipment (polluted) of garden flower’s seeds. Mugwort is considered to be one of the 10 most problematic weeds in the eastern United States. It is a noxious perennial weed .While the known species in Iraq that belong to the genus (Artimisia ) are annuals or biennials and not considered as a big problematic weed . The obtained results showed that it reproduces by rhizomes and seeds. One piece of its rhizome of 1 cm length, with only one bud, was planted in a silty clay loam soil. The one bud of the rhizome produced about 24 plants and 102 new rhizomes, with average number of 1-9 rhizome /plant and average length of 8-24 cm /rhizome , at 6 months after planting. Preliminary studies pointed out that the mechanical methods, were not effective on control the weed .Therefore we suggest very serious and quick decisions from Iraqi Agriculture Ministry must be taken to prevent spreading this noxious weed and eradicate it.