Area Time Equivalent Ratio Research Articles

Evaluation of barnyard millet intercropping systems in semi-arid zone of Hisar

A field experiment was conducted at CCSHAU, Hisar during Kharif seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 in three times replicated randomized block design. The experiment was comprised of thirteen barnyard millet-based inter- cropping systems in replacement series with greengram and sesame as intercrop with row ratio of 5:1, 4:2, 3:3, 2:4, 1:5 in addition to their sole crops. Results revealed that the barnyard millet intercropped with greengram was found superior over sole barnyard millet in terms of different intercropping indices. But, barnyard millet intercrop with sesame was found uneconomical. The barnyard millet + greengram (1:5) recorded the highest land equivalent ratio (LER; 1.25), barnyard millet equivalent yield (BMEY; 2977 kg/ha), land use efficiency (LUE; 119.4%), area time equivalent ratio (ATER; 1.14), relative crowding coefficient (RCC; 1.79), monitory advantage index (MAI; ` 10,756/ha), system productivity index (SPI; 2903), intercropping advantage index (IAI; 34.6), net return (` 23,111/ha), benefit:cost (1.42) and per day return (` 300.3) which was closely followed by barnyard millet + greengram (4:2). Hence, barnyard millet + greengram (1:5) intercropping system is a suitable option for achieving higher monetary returns and resource use efficiency as compared to sole barnyard millet under semiarid region of India.

Relay strip intercropping of wheat and cotton under limited water conditions

AbstractWheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) relay strip intercropping involves cultivating wheat sown in autumn and cotton sown in spring, allowing the two crops to grow together for ∼2 months. Despite its prevalence in cotton‐growing regions globally, this agricultural practice remains untapped in Turkey, where the emphasis on resource use efficiency and the competition between staple and cash crops are paramount. To address this, we conducted a study comparing three cropping systems under both well‐watered and limited water conditions: sole wheat with a row spacing of 13.5 cm, sole cotton with a row spacing of 70 cm, and an intercropping system consisting of four rows of wheat and two rows of cotton, with row spacings of 13.5 cm and 40.5 cm, respectively. In intercropped wheat and cotton, the relative wheat yield was 0.68, while the relative cotton yield was 0.73, resulting in a combined relative yield of 1.41 when compared to monoculture. The land equivalent ratio (1.44) and area time equivalent ratio (1.08) consistently exceeded 1.0, particularly under limited watering conditions and concurrent heat stress observed in the second year of the experiment. Our findings indicate that wheat–cotton relay intercropping holds significant potential as a highly effective approach to enhance the production of both cotton and wheat in Turkey, particularly in stressful conditions such as limited water availability.

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum)-based intercropping systems in Rajasthan’s Hadoti region: Productivity and economic viability

A study was carried out during three successive winter (rabi) seasons (2018–19 to 2020–21) at the Agricultural Research Station in Ummedganj, Kota, Rajasthan to determine the productivity and economic viability of intercropping systems based on chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan. Nine various chickpeabased intercropping systems, viz. Sole chickpea; Sole linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.); Sole coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.); Sole wheat (Triticum aestivum L.); Sole mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern.]; Chickpea + linseed (6:2); Chickpea + coriander (6:2); Chickpea + wheat (6:2); and Chickpea + mustard (6:2) were investigated in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. According to combined statistics, the chickpea + mustard intercropping system had the highest chickpea grain yield and equivalent yield (1,865 kg/ha and 2,574 kg/ ha, respectively) when compared to all other intercropping systems. Results of competitive indices revealed that compared to rest of the intercropping system, chickpea + mustard (6:2) recorded significantly higher LER (1.25), MAI (18,462) and SPI (2912 kg/ha), while the lowest land equivalent ratio (LER), monetary advantage index (MAI), system productivity index (SPI) and production efficiency (PE) were recorded in the chickpea + wheat intercropping system. The chickpea + mustard intercropping system yielded values of competition ratio (3.56), aggressivity (-0.05), system profitability index (2912), relative crowding coefficient (13.2), and area time equivalent ratio (1.24), that were sustainable and producible in comparison to other treatments. In terms of economics, compared to all other intercropping and solo crops, the chickpea + mustard intercropping system yielded the chickpea’s most significant net returns (`93,681/ha) and benefit cost (B:C) ratio (3.11). So, for south-eastern Rajasthan, the mustard and chickpea intercropping system is a productive and sustainable system.

Rowth of Betung Bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper) and Food Crop Production Under Agroforestry Bamboo Systems

One of the main species in community forests is betung bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper). Optimizing land use under bamboo can be achieved by cultivating food crops. This research aimed to determine the growth of betung bamboo and the production of food crops. The experimental design used a split plot design with four cultivation patterns as the main plots: agroforestry bamboo pattern i.e. agroforestry bamboo + rice (P1), agroforestry bamboo + rice + cassava (P2), agroforestry bamboo + rice + taro (P3), and mixed food crops (rice + cassava + taro) (P4), while the subplots were rice varieties: rindang 2 (V1), protani (V2), and unsoed (V3). The observed parameters were bamboo growth, soil fertility, and food crop production. The results showed that seven-year-old betung bamboo had an average of 6.01 mature stems per clump, an average plant height of 7.23 m, and a stem diameter of 7.12 cm. The numbers of young stems and shoots per clump was 1.45 and 3.71. The highest betung bamboo growth was in the agroforestry pattern (length: 8,49 m, diameter: 7.17 cm, thickness: 1.95, total weight: 21.31 kg). The highest rice yield was observed in the P2V1 treatment (4.17 kg). The highest cassava tuber yield per plant was observed in P4 (2.12 kg). The taro tuber yield was relatively higher in the agroforestry pattern with a distance of >1 m from the bamboo clump (0.52 kg plant-1). The land equivalent ratio (LER) and area time equivalent ratio (ATER) of bamboo and food crop agroforestry have a value above 1, so it is more efficient in land.

Growth and Productivity of Maize (Zea mays L.) as Influenced by Precision Nutrient Management and Intercropping Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) under Hot and Sub-humid Region of Odisha

Background: Cereal-legume intercropping is an age-old practice in most of the countries. Among the major cereals, maize is a better choice to include in legume intercropping due to its morphology and wider row spacing. Therefore, legume intercropping in consort with proper nutrient management can enhance overall productivity of the system, further improving crop diversification, nutritional security and agriculture sustainability. Considering these aspects, the present study was performed to examine the growth and productivity of maize as influenced by precision nutrient management and cowpea intercropping. Methods: The present study was carried out during rabi season of 2022-23 at P. G. Research Farm of M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Odisha, India. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with five intercropping combinations and five nutrient management treatments. All the treatments were replicated thrice. The plot size maintained was 5.0 m x 4.8 m. In case of maize and cowpea, high yielding hybrid ‘JKMH 4510’ and ‘KBC 9’ variety were taken for the study, respectively. Result: The results revealed that the growth parameters were significantly affected by intercropping ratios and nutrient management treatments. Although the yield attributes of maize were differed non significantly among the intercropping treatments but were significantly influenced by the nutrient treatments. In case of grain yield of maize, the Green Seeker-based nutrient management gave highest value with cowpea intercropping ratio of 1:1 and 2:2. LER and ATER were greater than unity, which indicated that the intercropping was advantageous. However, the maximum LER and Area Time Equivalent Ratio (ATER) were obtained from C3 (M+C 1:2) with 140:70:70 kg N, P2O5, K2O/ha, respectively. The study concluded that intercropping of maize + cowpea in 1:2 row ratio with Green Seeker-based nutrient management were advantageous over pure stand of maize fertilised with conventional nutrient management.

Performance of Direct-Seeded Upland Rice-Based Intercropping Systems Under Paired Rows in East-West Orientation

Production potential of rice based intercropping systems with legumes in Uganda is little known. Studies were conducted at Ikulwe Station of the National Agricultural Research Organisation to evaluate upland rice-based intercropping systems under paired-rows in the EW direction. A randomized complete block design with 3 replications was adopted during 2022 and 2023 with 8 pure stand and intercropped treatments. Adjustment from conventional planting to paired rows recorded high rice height and significant 1000 seed weights. In 2022 the 2 pure rice treatments produced significantly more tillers and panicles but legume intercrops reduced numbers of rice tillers and panicles. Intercropping significantly reduced the beans height (48%) and soybean pods (41%) during both years and also reduced the pods filling for beans (66%), groundnuts (36%) and soybeans (18.3%) during 2022. Although paired rice did not influence rice yield during both years, lower mean yield for rice (19.8%), beans (35%), groundnuts (33%) and soybeans (30.5%) were recorded. Lower legume intercrop yields were similarly recorded for beans (70%), groundnuts (73%) and soybeans (62%) during 2023. Partial (p) land equivalent ratios (LER) for intercrops were not significant and less than unity, but the one for rice intercropped with beans increased to more than unity (1.06) during 2023. All combined LER for rice-legumes were more than unity and the pLER of sole crops was 1.0. Rice + beans recorded high area time equivalent ratio during the 2 years while high relative equivalent yield and monetary advantage indices were recorded under rice + soybeans. Rice was more aggressive than other crops and intercropped treatments recorded higher Total Rice Grain yield equivalent (TRGYE) than sole rice. Rice + soybeans (2022) and rice + beans (2023) scored higher TRGY. The findings suggest that farmers can intercrop soybean in rice under paired rows in EW orientation for more benefits.

Optimizing the planting time and stand density of sunn hemp intercropping for biomass productivity and competitiveness in a maize-based system

ContextOptimizing cover crop intercropping should aim to be sustainable, economically feasible and environmentally benign. Significant consideration must be given to cover crop plant timing and stand density adjustments to complement the resource demands of the dominant crop, while ensuring optimal biomass yields. ObjectiveThe study assessed a range of intercropping indices to evaluate the influence of different planting times and stand densities of sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) when intercropped with maize (Zea mays L.). The evaluation focused on interspecies interactions in relation to aboveground biomass production. MethodsA split-plot experiment was conducted using the in-field rainwater harvesting (IRWH) technique. The main plot factors included three intercropping times: simultaneous with maize planting, at the V15 and the R1 maize growth stages. The subplot factors consisted of three stand densities (16, 32 and 48 plants m−2), with three replicates for both the 2019/20 and 2020/21 seasons. Intercropping indices, including land equivalent ratio and coefficient, area time equivalent ratio, land use efficiency, system productivity index, percentage yield difference, relative crowding coefficient, aggressivity, competitive ratio and actual yield loss were employed to assess interspecific interactions and their impact on biomass productivity. ResultsResults show that intercropping sunn hemp at maize planting or the V15 maize growth stage can reduce stand density to 32 plants m−2 without reducing sunn hemp biomass yield. The land equivalent ratio was highest (2.20), with intercropping at the V15 maize growth stage and lowest (2.09) with simultaneous intercropping at maize planting. The relative crowding coefficient was highest (34.4) at the V15 maize growth stage at 32 plants m−2 stand density and lowest (−45.9) with simultaneous intercropping at planting at the same stand density. Intercropping during the R1 maize growth stage influenced competition on sunn hemp with the highest actual yield loss of − 0.07. Competitive ratios were significantly higher for maize (26.19) and sunn hemp (0.16) with R1 and V15 maize growth stage intercropping, respectively. However, sunn hemp's actual yield loss was higher (0.25) with intercropping during the V15 maize growth stage than in sole cropping. ConclusionsIntercropping sunn hemp both simultaneously with maize planting and during the V15 maize growth stage with a stand density of 32 plants m−2 demonstrated enhanced biomass productivity, thereby offering viable intensification choices. The utilization of multiple intercropping indices can contribute to a more comprehensive and precise evaluation of interspecies interactions, consequently leading to improved decision-making.

Effect of the summer pearl millet-groundnut intercropping system on the growth, productivity and competitive ability of crops under south Odisha conditions

A millet-based intercropping system is common in dryland and rainfed conditions. Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) exhibits wide adaptability to different agroclimatic conditions and seasons, making it suitable for an intercropping system. Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) is a leguminous oil-seed crop that can be cultivated as an intercrop in various cereals and millets to enhance productivity and resource efficiency. Based on these facts, the present study was conducted at the Research Farm of Centurion University of Technology and Management during the summer season of 2022 to assess the effect of the summer pearl millet + groundnut intercropping system on the growth, productivity, and competitive ability of crops under the conditions of south Odisha. The experiment consisted of nine treatments. In case of pearl millet, the highest plant height at harvest was achieved in pearl millet (30 cm × 10 cm) + groundnut (1:1) (186 cm), while the maximum plant height of groundnut at harvest was observed in pearl millet (45 cm × 10 cm) + groundnut (1:2) (70cm). Dry matter production at harvest and leaf area index (LAI) at 60 days after sowing (DAS) of pearl millet were highest in pearl millet sole (857 g m-2 and 2.19, respectively). The maximum dry matter production at harvest was found in groundnut sole. The highest yield of individual crops was observed in their pure stands, with 2677 kg ha-1 and 2633 kg ha-1 of pearl millet grain and groundnut pod, respectively. Among mixed stands, pearl millet (30 cm × 10 cm) + groundnut (1:1) and pearl millet (45 cm × 10cm) + groundnut (1:1) showed superior values of different competition functions, such as aggressivity, relative crowding coefficient, monetary advantage, land equivalent ratio, and area time equivalent ratio. The results concluded that pearl millet and groundnut could be intercropped with a 1:1 row proportion with pearl millet spacing of either 30 cm × 10 cm or 45 cm × 10 cm in south Odisha conditions.

Increasing sustainability by intercropping legume crops with sugar beet under imposed water stress

AbstractThe sustainable use of soil and water resources is a goal that should be pursued to attain food security. This investigation was implemented to compare the effects of three legume intercropping systems with sugar beet on (i) enhancing sugar beet yield under imposed water stress conditions, (ii) soil N contents, (iii) land and water use efficiencies, and (iv) farmers' net income. Two field experiments were carried out in the 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons in the El‐Minia Governorate, Egypt. The treatments included the interaction between three irrigation treatments: required irrigation ((control, 100% ETc, RI) and two levels of imposed water stress (85% ETc (WS1) and 70% ETc (WS2)), and three intercropping systems: faba bean (FIS), chickpea (CIS) and lentil (LIS) intercropped with sugar beet. The results indicate that the application of implementing CIS and with RI attained higher average values of soil N content (SNC = 14.0 mg kg−1) and net income (NI = US$3,974 ha−1) than those obtained by sugar beet alone. Irrigation with WS1 and the implementation of CIS gave a value of SNC (12.3 mg kg−1) close to that obtained under sugar beet alone irrigated with RI. CIS irrigated with WS1 attained higher averaged values of land equivalent ratio (LER = 1.34), area time equivalent ratio (ATER = 1.28), land equivalent coefficient (LEC = 0.38), water equivalent ratio (WER = 1.12), negative value of change in water use (ΔWU < 0) and NI (US$3,602 ha−1) than those obtained under FIS or LIS irrigated with RI. In conclusion, implementing CIS and irrigation with RI can achieve the sustainable use of land and water. However, implementing CIS and irrigation with WS1 can realize soil improvement, conserve irrigation water and attain higher values of LER, ATER, LEC, WER, and NI than those obtained under FIS, LIS and sugar beet alone.

Assessing the suitability of traditional food crops and resource use efficiency in kalmegh [Andrographis paniculata (Burm. F.) Wall ex. Nees] based intercropping systems

Kalmegh [Andrographis paniculata (Burm. F.) Wall ex. Nees] has industrial potential due to the presence of bioactive substances, which always upsurges its demands in the pharmaceutical industry. The purpose of the present study was to identify the suitable companion crops (cereal crops: maize, pearl millet, and sorghum; vegetable crops: okra, cluster bean, tomato, and brinjal; oilseed crops: sunflower and sesame; and pulses crop: pigeon pea) in kalmegh based intercropping system. To accomplish this goal, a field experiment was conducted at the experimental research farm of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP) Lucknow, India, for three successive years. The results of the experiment revealed that among all the treatments of intercrops, T10 (Kalmegh + Pigeon pea), T4 (Kalmegh + Okra) in vegetables, T2 (Kalmegh + Pearl millet) in cereals had significantly higher kalmegh dry herbage yield (increased by 30.55%, 29.32%, and 16.53%, respectively), and andrographolide yield (increased by 87%, 49.09%, and 53.17%, respectively) in comparison to kalmegh sole-crop, this is likely related to the sciophytic behavior of kalmegh. Although, kalmegh shows strong competitiveness with all the treatments except T6 (Kalmegh + Tomato), T7 (Kalmegh + Brinjal), and T9 (Kalmegh + Sesame). In a similar manner, the land equivalent ratio ranged from 1.37 to 2.19 and the area time equivalent ratio ranged from 1.25 to 2.0, demonstrating that the kalmegh based intercropping system is a beneficial approach to maximize resource use efficiency. Consequently, in a world facing limited land resources, our research outcomes could help smallholder’s in improving their agricultural systems to achieve greater production efficiency.

Evaluation of Competitive Indices Between Caraway and Garlic as Affected by Intercropping System and Potassium Fertilization Level

During the winters of 2020/2021 and 2021/2022, an experiment was done on a private farm in Taha El-Marg Village, Diarb Negm District, Al Sharqia Governorate, Egypt. The purpose of these studies was to examine the impact of intercropping systems using caraway and garlic at varying row ratios (single crop of each as control, 1:2, 2:1, and 2: 2, respectively) and potassium rates (0.0, 25, 50, and 75 kg K2O/feddan) on competitive indices between the two crops. Plots consisted in the intercropping systems and the subplots were constituted by the potassium fertilization rates. Alternating two rows of caraway with one row of garlic significantly increased land equivalent ratio (LER), area× time equivalent ratio (ATER) and land utilization efficiency (LUE%) compared to the other intercropping systems. Under the highest potassium fertilization level, the highest values of LER (1.17 and 1.10), ATER (1.09 and 1.04) and LUE% (112.82 and 107.00%) were achieved. In general applied intercropping systems (1:2 or 2: 2 systems) were more efficient than sole cropping and other one under study when combined with potassium fertilization rate at 75 kg K2O/feddan, in most cases. Both competitive ratio (CR) and Aggressivity (A) estimation showed that caraway was dominant while garlic was dominated.

Augmenting productivity and profitability through Sesame–Legume intercropping

IntroductionIntercropping contributes a significant role in sustainable agricultural system as it improves soil conservation, productivity and stability of yield and makes better use of production elements. However, the economic advantages and dis advantages of sesame and legume intercropping is not quantified. MethodsField experiment, consisted of seven treatments, conducted in 2016 and 2017 cropping seasons using randomized complete block design with three replications. Land equivalent ratio, Competitive Ratio (CR), Relative crowding coefficient (K), Aggressivity (A), Sesame equivalent yield, Legume equivalent yield (LEY), Monetary Advantage Index, Area Time Equivalent Ratio (ATER), Land Saved and correlation of the indexes were competed. ResultsThe highest total LER (0.63) recorded from sesame intercropped with half as well as full seed rate of mungbean. Sesame intercropped with half seed rate of mungbean showed lower CR (1.57) and the total K of the system was greater than a unity in three of the treatments except in sesame + half seed rate of soybean with total K of 0.81. Sesame intercropped with half seed rate of soybean was dominant with aggressivity (0.13) while it was dominated in both of the other treatments with negative aggressivity. The highest MAI (1181.15 and 1239.1) was gained from sesame intercropped with mungbean at full and half seed rates respectively and the ATER value of sesame + half seed rate of soybean was greater than a unity while sesame + half seed rate of soybean scored lower than unity (0.94). Grain yield showed a positively strong correlation with LEY, SEY, and Ktot while it showed a negative correlation with CRs and As. Based on the PCA biplot the intercropping indexes grouped in to three clusters (I-III): cluster I, II and III consisted of 3, 1 and 9 intercropping indexes respectively. ConclusionLS, LER and MAI are the best indexes to compute the economic profitability of a mixed cropping. Generally, based on the LS, LER and MAI sesame-legume intercropping practice is economically profitable.

Foliage-Sprayed Nano-Chitosan-Loaded Nitrogen Boosts Yield Potentials, Competitive Ability, and Profitability of Intercropped Maize-Soybean

The progressive reduction of synthetic agrochemical fertilizers is one of the key factors in the shift from conventional agriculture to sustainable farming. Nitrogen (N) is the ruling element in the development of agricultural production, but its use in the mineral form or its excessive use causes several environmental issues. Since the release of N nanocomposites coincides with their uptake by crops, N loss reduces while enhancing plant uptake due to nano fertilizers application. Additionally, an intercropping legume with cereal as an eco-friendly pattern could improve and rationalize the nitrogenous inputs. Therefore, a two-year field trial was conducted to determine the efficacy of nano-chitosan-loaded N (CS-NNPs) for saving mineral N amounts applied in maize-based on maize-soybean intercropping and enhancing land productivity. Methods In a randomized split-plot design in three replicates, three intercropping patterns, in addition to the sole crops, and three N levels were implemented. Intercropping involved three intercrop configurations [planting maize rows (M) alternated with soybean rows (S) in patterns of 4M:2S, 2M:4S, and 3M:3S)], in addition to planting sole maize crop (SMC) and sole soybean crop (SSC). N fertilization treatments included adding 288 kg N ha−1 (MN100%) and two levels of CS-NNPs composite involving 216 kg N ha−1 + 2 foliar sprays of CS-NNPs (MN75% + 2CS-NNPs), and 144 kg N ha−1 + 3 foliar sprays of CS-NNPs composite (MN50% + 3CS-NNPs). Under the tested treatments, the agronomic traits, intercropping indices, and economic benefits were estimated. Results Findings revealed that the application of SMC × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs, followed by 4M:2S × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs showed the highest growth, biological yield, and grain yield of maize. The interaction of SSC × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs, followed by 2M:4S × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs resulted in the highest seed yield components, biological yield, straw yield, and seed yield of soybean. Application of 2M:4S × MN100%, 2M:4S × MN50% + 3NNPs, and 3M:3S × MN100% recorded the maximum total land equivalent ratio. While applications of 2M:4S × MN100%, 2M:4S × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs, and 3M:3S × MN100% achieved the highest land equivalent coefficient, land-use efficiency, area time equivalent ratio, and percent yield difference. Likewise, both interactions of 2M:4S × MN75% + 2CS-NNPs and 3M:3S × MN100% recorded the highest system productivity index. Better yield advantage of maize-soybean intercrop compared with the monocrop since total actual yield loss values were positive and higher than zero in all interactions of intercropping pattern × N fertilization. Fertilizing maize with MN50% + 3CS NNPs grown under the 2M:4S pattern had the highest positive aggressivity values. Conclusion The productivity shortfall accompanying the 25% N reduction was compensated by the application of CS-NNPs. Thus, N applied to the maize intercropped with soybeans can be rationalized. This undoubtedly has a good economic payoff for the maize growers with the conservation of the agricultural environment. In maize production systems, it is advisable to fertilize the plants using 216 kg instead of 288 kg nitrogen ha−1 when nano chitosan-loaded nitrogen composite twice (0.48 kg nitrogen ha−1) applied.

Analysis of the Changes in Morphological Traits of Sorghum in Legume-Sorghum Intercropping Patterns in Western Kenya

Cereal-legumes intercropping is among the most effective agronomic strategies to boot biomass production, contribute to soil nitrogen through fixation which benefits soil productivity and sustainability. The main objective of this study was to analyze the changes in morphological traits of sorghum in legume-sorghum intercropping patterns. The experiment was conducted at KALRO Kibos station, Kisumu during long and short rainy 2020 seasons. The experimental design was randomized complete block design (RCBD) with eleven treatments replicated thrice. Data was collected on growth and yield parameters of sorghum, cowpea and soybean. Sorghum morphological traits measured were plant height, number of leaves and number of tillers, while yield data was measured on grain yield and yield components. In addition, data on competition indices was also determined using land equivalent ratio (LER) and area time equivalent ratio (ATER). Data collected was compiled and tabulated for statistical analysis using Microsoft excel software. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was carried out using R software version 4.2.2. Where means were significant, Tukey’s test ad hoc method was used separate treatment means at 95% probability level. The results showed that sorghum morphological traits differed significantly (P<0.001) in the two seasons as influenced by intercropping. The greatest plant height was recorded in sorghum in alternate holes with soybean across the four months, while the highest plant height of 226.3 cm and 219.70 cm was recorded in seasons one and two respectively in 120 Days after planting (DAP). Similar results were recorded in sorghum number of leaves and tillers. Yield data showed that means of number of harvested heads, weight of harvested heads, and grain weight were statistically significant at p<0.001. Sorghum in alternate rows with soybean registered the maximum number of harvested heads: 21.33 and 19.67 seasons one and two respectively. Similar results were obtained .....

Analysis of the Changes in Morphological Traits of Sorghum in Legume-Sorghum Intercropping Patterns in Western Kenya

Cereal-legumes intercropping is among the most effective agronomic strategies to boot biomass production, contribute to soil nitrogen through fixation which benefits soil productivity and sustainability. The main objective of this study was to analyze the changes in morphological traits of sorghum in legume-sorghum intercropping patterns. The experiment was conducted at KALRO Kibos station, Kisumu during long and short rainy 2020 seasons. The experimental design was randomized complete block design (RCBD) with eleven treatments replicated thrice. Data was collected on growth and yield parameters of sorghum, cowpea and soybean. Sorghum morphological traits measured were plant height, number of leaves and number of tillers, while yield data was measured on grain yield and yield components. In addition, data on competition indices was also determined using land equivalent ratio (LER) and area time equivalent ratio (ATER). Data collected was compiled and tabulated for statistical analysis using Microsoft excel software. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was carried out using R software version 4.2.2. Where means were significant, Tukey’s test ad hoc method was used separate treatment means at 95% probability level. The results showed that sorghum morphological traits differed significantly (P<0.001) in the two seasons as influenced by intercropping. The greatest plant height was recorded in sorghum in alternate holes with soybean across the four months, while the highest plant height of 226.3 cm and 219.70 cm was recorded in seasons one and two respectively in 120 Days after planting (DAP). Similar results were recorded in sorghum number of leaves and tillers. Yield data showed that means of number of harvested heads, weight of harvested heads, and grain weight were statistically significant at p<0.001. Sorghum in alternate rows with soybean registered the maximum number of harvested heads: 21.33 and 19.67 seasons one and two respectively. Similar results were obtained in ..

Penilaian Komponen Hasil dan Indeks Intercropping 22 Jagung Hibrida Pada Sistem Intercropping Jagung-Kedelai

This study aims to determine the performance of the yield components and the intercropping index of 22 hybrid maize in the maize-soybean intercropping system. This research was carried out in Cikajang, Garut Regency from January 2021 to June 2021. The method used in this research is a quantitative descriptive and experimental method. The experimental design used was a randomized block design with 27 treatments made in 3 replications. The genetic material used was 22 test hybrids from the Padjadjaran University collection and 5 commercial hybrids as comparisons. Assessment of yield components was carried out using The Least Significant Increase (LSI) test assessed for 4 yield components consisting of cob diameter, cob length, number of seeds cobs, and dry seed/plant weight. Intercropping index assessment was analyzed based on the calculation of Land Equivalent Ratio (LER), Area Time Equivalent Ratio (ATER), and Aggressivity (A). The results showed that there were 4 hybrids that had high yields in the maize-soybean intercropping system including DRc6 x DRc7, DRc8 X MDRc18.8.1, DRc8 X MDRc1.1.3 and MDRc3.1.4 X MDRc18.5.1. There are 3 profitable hybrids in the intercropping system of soybean maize based on the intercropping index including DRc4 X MDRc7.2.3, DRc8 x DRc9, and MDRc7.4.3 x MDRc18.8.1.

System analysis of browntop millet based intercropping system in vertisols under rainfed condition

A field experiment was conducted at Main Agricultural Research Station, UAS, Dharwad during kharif season,2021-22 to analyze the browntop millet intercropping system with legumes. The experiment was laid out in randomizedcomplete block design with thirteen treatments and replicated thrice. Among thirteen treatments the browntop millet wasintercropped with groundnut, soybean, green gram and black gram in 4:2 and 2:1 row ratio and remaining treatments wereindividual sole crops. Sole browntop millet was recorded significantly higher grain yield (973.61 ka ha-1), whereas, amongthe different intercropping systems 4:2 row proportion of browntop millet + groundnut was recorded numerically highergrain yield (674.31 kg ha-1). Significantly higher browntop millet equivalent yield (BMEY) was recorded in sole groundnut(3689 kg ha-1), whereas, among the different intercropping system browntop millet + groundnut (4:2) was recordednumerically higher BMEY (2326 kg ha-1). Browntop millet + black gram at 4:2 row proportion was recorded numericallyhigher value of land equivalent ratio, area time equivalent ratio and system productivity index (1.192, 1.13 and 1159.49,respecitvely). Browntop millet was shown negative trend with respect to agrressivity. Significantly higher value of relativecrowding coefficient was recorded with browntop millet + groundnut with 4:2 row ratio (18.12). Sole groundnut wasrecorded significantly higher gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratio ( `1,13,438, `72,934 ha-1 and 2.80, respectively).However, among the different intercropping systems browntop millet + groundnut at 4:2 row proportion was recordednumerically higher gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio ( `72,397 ha-1, `37,971 ha-1 and 2.10, respectively).

The efficiency of cassava–Bambara groundnut intercropping according to the sowing date of cassava

The objective of this study was to propose a profitable cropping association date between cassava (Manihot esculenta) and Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea, also known as voandzou) through the examination of competition indices. The association of the cassava varieties Allada agba, Bonoua, Six mois and Yacé with the bouquet and creeping morphotypes of Bambara groundnut was tested at different cassava sowing dates: 0, 15 and 30 days after sowing of the bouquet Bambara groundnut and 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 days after sowing the creeping Bambara groundnut. These cropping association systems were evaluated through competition indices in Côte d’Ivoire: the area–time equivalent ratio (ATER), the competitiveness rate (CR) and the relative dominance coefficient (K). ATER and K values were greater than unity when cassava was sown 15 to 30 days after sowing the bouquet Bambara groundnut and 30 to 45 days after sowing the creeping Bambara groundnut. Cassava varieties were more competitive than the Bambara groundnut morphotypes (CRC > CRV). The best results in terms of efficient land use (ATER > 1) and yield gain (K > 1) were obtained when cassava was sown 30 days after Bambara groundnut. However, for the Bonoua–Bambara groundnut creeping association, the yield gain was obtained when cassava was sown 45 days after Bambara groundnut.

Viabilidade agrobioeconômica de combinações de cultivares de feijão caupi imaturo e de beterraba em ambiente semiárido

ABSTRACT The objective of this work was to evaluate the agro-bioeconomic feasibility of immature cowpea and beet cultivar combinations in intercropping systems in a semi-arid environment. Experiments were carried out in two cropping years using a randomized block design with four replicates. The treatments consisted of four cowpea cultivars (‘BRS Tumucumaque,’ ‘BRS Cauamé,’ ‘BRS Guariba,’ and ‘BRS Itaim’) and two beet cultivars (‘Early Wonder’ and ‘Fortuna’). In each block of the experiments, plots in monocropping of the cultivars were sown as additional treatments to obtain the following agronomic and competition indexes and economic indicators: land equivalent ratio (LER), area time equivalent ratio (ATER), land use efficiency (LUE), beet equivalent production (BEP), competitive ratio (CR), crop aggressivity (A), gross income (GI), net income (NI), rate of return (RR), and corrected monetary advantage (CMA). The highest agro-bioeconomic efficiency of the tested intercropping systems was achieved in the combination of cowpea cultivar BRS Guariba and beet cultivar Fortuna. Beet behaved as the dominant crop, and cowpea as the dominated crop in all evaluated intercropping systems. The indexes and indicators demonstrated the complementarity and sustainability of the combination of cowpea cultivar BRS Guariba with beet cultivar Fortuna.

Effects of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)–Mucuna pruriens intercropping pattern on the agronomic performances of potato and the soil physicochemical properties of the western highlands of Cameroon

Abstract A field experiment was conducted at the teaching and research farm of the Faculty of Agronomy and Agricultural Sciences of the University of Dschang to investigate the effects of potato–Mucuna intercropping pattern on the agronomic performances of potatoes and the soil physicochemical properties in western highlands of Cameroon. The experiment design was a randomized complete block with three replications. The treatments included a pure potato stand (T1), pure Mucuna stand (T2), 1:1 (T3), 1:2 (T4), and 2:1 (T5) potato–Mucuna intercropping patterns. The results revealed that potato–Mucuna intercropping patterns had no significant effect (P > 0.05) on potato growth variables, soil physical properties, and the relative crowding coefficient. The highest potato yield (24,913 kg ha−1) and potato equivalent yield (81,513 kg ha−1) were obtained from the 1:1 intercropping pattern. The highest total LER (2.17) and the lowest (1.38) were obtained with 1:1 and 1:2 intercropping patterns, respectively. Area time equivalent ratio values were greater than 1 in 1:1 (1.46) and 2:1 (1.29) intercropping patterns. Mucuna proved to be the most aggressive and competitive species according to Ap and competitive ratio values except for the 1:2 intercropping pattern with K indicating a yield advantage in all intercropping patterns. 1:1 and 2:1 intercropping patterns gave the best C/N (13.94) and cation exchange capacity (36.12 meq 100 g−1), respectively. Late blight incidence was highest (16.88%) on potato sole crop stand and lowest (8.05%) on 1:2 intercropping pattern. Therefore, based on the findings of this experiment, 1:1 or 1:2 intercropping pattern could be recommended in potato–Mucuna intercropping system.