Potential of Phenols and Terpenes in the Control of Resistant Weed Populations (BIOSUPRES) 

When nature becomes the solution to herbicide-resistant weeds

The BIOSUPRES project explores the use of natural plant-derived compounds as a sustainable alternative to conventional herbicides for controlling resistant populations of Ambrosia artemisiifolia.

The research focuses on phenolic acids and terpenes — applied individually and in combination with reduced herbicide doses — with the aim of developing effective and environmentally friendly weed management strategies.

The challenge of modern agriculture

Weeds represent one of the greatest challenges in modern agriculture, causing significant yield losses and increasing reliance on synthetic herbicides.
Intensive herbicide use has led to the development of resistant weed populations, making their control increasingly difficult and placing additional pressure on the environment.

In this context, allelopathy — the chemical interaction between plants — offers a promising alternative through the use of natural compounds with herbicidal potential.

About the project

The BIOSUPRES project is based on the study of plant secondary metabolites as potential natural herbicides.

Although not essential for plant growth, these compounds play a crucial role in:

– plant defense
– competition
– allelopathic interactions

Compounds investigated in the project
Phenolic acids: ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, gallic acid
Terpenes: eugenol, thymol, carvacrol

Research approach

The project combines laboratory and greenhouse experiments to provide a comprehensive understanding of compound activity.

Laboratory experiments (in vitro)

  • seed germination
  • radicle and hypocotyl length
  • phytotoxicity
  • crop selectivity

Greenhouse experiments

  • plant growth under controlled conditions
  • evaluation under more realistic conditions

Analytical approach

  • determination of effective doses (ED50, ED90)
  • comparison between sensitive and resistant populations

Key objectives

  • evaluate the effectiveness of natural compounds on resistant and sensitive populations
  • investigate synergy with reduced herbicide doses
  • assess selectivity towards maize crops

Mode of action

Phenolic compounds and terpenes act through various physiological and biochemical mechanisms:

  • inhibition of seed germination
  • reduction of root (radicle) growth
  • disruption of cell division
  • interference with photosynthesis and metabolism

Their activity can result in significant inhibition of weed growth and development.

Why BIOSUPRES?

Plant secondary metabolites represent a new generation of solutions for weed management:

– naturally derived
– biodegradable
– environmentally friendly
– different modes of action compared to synthetic herbicides

BIOSUPRES contributes to the development of bioherbicides and sustainable crop protection strategies, reducing dependence on conventional pesticides.

Project Leader

Assist. Prof. Valentina Šoštarčić, PhD
University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture,
Department of Weed Science

Adress:
Svetošimunska cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
E-mail:
vsostarcic@agr.hr

Collaborators

Prof. Maja Šćepanović, PhD
University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture,
Department of Weed Science

Marija Sarić-Krsmanović, PhD
Institute of Pesticides and Environmental Protection,
Belgrade

Laura Pismarović, MSc
University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture,
Department of Weed Science 

Dragojka Brzoja, MSc
University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture,
Department of Weed Science

Petra Gregurić, MSc
University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture,
Department of Weed Science