ABSTRACT
The need for non-chemical, effective and sustainable weed management methods has become critical in light of increased public concern for the environment and the increasingly rigorous regulation of pesticide use (Upadhyaya and Blackshaw, 2007). The recent ban of numerous agrochemicals in Europe, where almost 75% of the previously registered pesticides have been removed from the market (Kudsk et al., 2013), necessitates the wider adoption of an integrated approach to weed management. The global phase out of methyl bromide and the lack of an appropriate replacement fumigant have directed much attention to alternative practices for chemical pest control, particularly in commercial vegetable crops (Besri et al., 2012).
