Sea mouse-ear

The sea mouse-ear (Cerastium diffusum) is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family. In an agronomic context, it is classified as a weed that often thrives in disturbed soils, including agricultural fields, where it can quickly establish itself and compete with crops for essential resources.

This weed is commonly found in various regions across temperate zones. It predominantly affects cereal crops, vegetable plantings, and forage meadows. Its ability to thrive in diverse soil types, particularly light and sandy ones, makes it a persistent challenge for farmers in affected areas, where it can rapidly outcompete weaker crop seedlings.

The biology of Cerastium diffusum is defined by its prolific seed production and rapid life cycle. A single plant can disperse a large number of seeds that remain viable in the soil seed bank for several years. This adaptive strategy allows the weed to emerge throughout the growing season whenever conditions are favorable, particularly during the early stages of crop development.

The harmful impact of the sea mouse-ear on agricultural productivity is significant. By forming dense mats or spreading across rows, the weed intercepts vital sunlight and competes for soil moisture and nutrients. This interference leads to stunted growth of crops and can potentially create microclimates that encourage the proliferation of fungal pathogens, further reducing the overall crop quality.

Effective management requires an integrated approach that combines mechanical and chemical strategies. Key practices include:

• Regular soil cultivation and deep plowing to bury weed seeds.
• Implementation of crop rotation schemes to break the weed life cycle.
• Timely mechanical weeding in inter-row spaces.
• Application of selective herbicides during the early seedling stage.