Which soil properties could affect the floristic composition of weed communities in saffron fields

This two-year research was conducted to study the relationship(s) between the soil properties and the species diversity of weed community in saffron (Crocus sativus) fields in production poles of Afghanistan, including the Karukh, Injil, and the Ghoryan Districts, during 2020–2021 and 2021–2022 cropping seasons. The saffron fields (one-, two-, and larger than two-hectare fields) were selected based on the saffron cultivated area in each district. Weed sampling from the fields was done using a 0.25-m² quadrat depending on the field area, between 5 (one-hectare fields) and 13 times (larger than two-hectare fields), through a W-shaped pattern within fields. The functional diversity of weeds (life cycle and vegetative form) was determined, and diversity indices were used to calculate the abundance, density, and dominance of weed species in each district. Also, soil properties of fields were investigated from the depths of 0–25 and 25–50 cm. The results showed that six variables, including electrical conductivity, absorbable potassium, carbon/nitrogen ratio, pH, moisture, and organic carbon percentage, had the highest effect on weed diversity. In conclusion, changing these factors might be a sustainable method for weed management in saffron fields in a way that these conditions negatively affect weed growth and establishment.