Effect of intercropping system, mycorrhizal inoculation and fertilizer levels on the yield of hybrid maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

Field experiment was conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore to study the effect of hybrid maize ( Zea mays ) under different intercropping systems, mycorrhizal inoculation and fertilizer levels on the yield component and yield of maize. The experiment was laid out in split - split plot design during winter 2011-12. The results indicated that among the cropping systems, sole maize recorded significantly better yield attributes and higher yield that was comparable with maize + cowpea intercropping system. With respect to mycorrhiza, mycorrhizal inoculated treatments recorded higher grain and stover yield. Among the fertilizer levels, 125 per cent RDF recorded higher grain yield. Regarding the treatment combinations, sole maize along with mycorrhizal inoculation and 125 per cent RDF recorded significantly higher yield parameters and yield. However, the yield was comparable with maize intercropped with cowpea along with mycorrhizal inoculation and application of 100 per cent RDF.