In this OFE, a technique of localized pre-emergence weed control on the maize row (i.e., applied at the same time as sowing) was implemented, integrated with mechanical control tools (inter-row hoeing). The goal was to reduce herbicide use while maintaining effective weed control and comparable yields. The researchers monitored weed emergence in the three tested treatments — broadcast herbicide application, 50% surface treatment, and 33% surface treatment — during the early growth stages of maize and immediately before maize harvest (see photo), making assessments both within the rows and between the rows.