Fodder productivity and economics of multi-cut pearlmillet (Pennisetum glaucum) intercropped with clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba)

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during summer seasons of 2006 and 2007 at Bikaner, Rajasthan to find out the effect of sole, mixed and intercropping in different row ratios (1:1, 1:2, 2:2 3:2 and 3:3) of pearlmillet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br. emend. Stuntz] and clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub] on fodder productivity and its economics. Green and dry fodder yields of both the component crops, viz. pearlmillet and clusterbean, were substantially reduced under intercropping system compared with their sole crop yields. Pooled analysis of 2 years showed that intercropping of pearlmillet and clusterbean with a row ratio of 2:2 recorded the maximum values of growth parameters, viz. height and number of plants or tillers per unit area, green fodder (59.7 tlha), dry matter (13.18 tlha), crude protein (1.27 tlha), land-equivalent ratio (1.35), price-equivalent ratio (1.44), net returns (Rs 47,300lha) and benefit : cost ratio (3.27) than other intercropping row ratios, mixed cropping and sole stands of pearlmillet and clusterbeen. However, maximum aggressivity index (0.66) and relative crowding co- efficient (12.37) were obtained with mixed seed sowing of pearlmillet and clusterbean. Thus intercropping system of multi-cut fodder pearmillet and clusterbeen in a row ratio of 2:2 may be adopted for higher productivity, better quality and profitability in hot arid conditions.