Weed Smothering Efficiency and Productivity as Influenced by Crop Geometry and Intercropping in Baby Corn (Zea MaysL.)

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore to study the effect of crop geometry and intercropping on the weed smothering efficiency and productivity of baby corm. Two levels of crop geometry (60 x 20 cm and 75 x 16 cm) and two intercrops (baby corn alone, baby corn + fenugreek (greens), baby corn + fodder cowpea) were studied. Results revealed that crop geometry levels did not alter the weed population but altered the weed TDMP and weed smothering efficiency (WSE). Baby corn raised at 75 x 16 cm crop geometry registered lower TDMP of weeds. The weed smothering efficiency (WSE) was higher under baby corn intercropped with fenugreek and fodder cowpea at 75 cm row spacing. Baby corn raised at 75 x 16 cm produced higher green cob yield over 60 x 20 cm spacing. Intercropping in baby corn did not have positive influence on yield of baby corn. However, the baby corn equivalent yield (BEY) was higher with baby corn + fenugreek grown under 75 cm row spacing.