Intercropping of Different Secondary Crops in Maize

TLDR: The objective of this research was to select an appropriate secondary crop that could be grown with maize in an intercropping system to control weeds while maintaining maize yields, and a negative relation was found between theield of secondary crop plus weeds in August and October and the yield of maize in October.

Abstract: Intercropping and bicropping are common cultivation systems in many countries. Maize (Zea mays L.) as a main crop combined with a legume as secondary crop is in general use in many countries. These systems may contribute to a higher biodiversity, and reduced import of fertilizer, concentrates and agrochemicals. The objective of this research was to select an appropriate secondary crop that could be grown with maize in an intercropping system to control weeds while maintaining maize yields. Field beans (Vicia faba L.), crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.), phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia Benth.) and thyphon [Brassica rapa L. ar. rapa (L.) Thell] were selected as secondary crops. Acceptable yields of dry matter in maize were obtained regardless of secondary crop. Different yield levels were obtained depending on the morphology of the secondary crop. Thyphon, a high, dense secondary crop with large leaves, shaded the lower maize canopy, and thereby reduced the yield of maize. In contrast, field bean, wh...