Potential for sesame to contribute to integrated control of Striga hermonthica in the West African Sahel

Striga hermonthica is an important constraint to the production of pearl millet, a staple cereal in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa. Sesame is an important oilseed crop well adapted to the sandy soils of the West African Sahel. Intercropping of sesame and pearl millet has been reported to reduce emerged striga numbers, but formal research into the potential for sesame to contribute to control of the parasite is lacking. Field trials were undertaken to evaluate the potential of sesame grown in rotation with pearl millet to reduce striga infestation of the cereal. Emerged striga numbers and striga fruiting were strongly reduced on pearl millet following sesame compared to sole millet. To maximize cereal yield, soil fertility enhancement and water conservation are indispensable elements of integrated striga control. The results can guide future research at a time where sesame is being promoted to diversify agricultural production in the Sahel.