Production potential and economics of maize (Zea mays) intercropped with legumes as influenced by weed control

Abstract

A study was undertaken during the rainy seasons of 2001 and 2002 at Udaipur, to evaluate effect of weed con- trol on production potential and economics of maize (Zea mays L.)-legume intercropping system. Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] as intercrops reduced the weed dry matter. Introduc- tion cf different rainy season legumes did not affect yield attributes and yield of maize but significanlty increased maize-equivalent yield. All weed-control treatments resulted in significant reduction in weed dry matter and helped in significant enhancement in maize yeild attributes and yield. Weed control through metolachlor recorded higher maize-equivalent yield which was at par with alachor and hand-weeding. Higher net returns and benefit : cost ratio were obtained by maize + cowpea intercropping system, but it was at par with other intercropping system, while in terms of net returns and benefit : cost ratio-metolachlor, alachlor and hand-weeding were statistically equivalent.