Effects of Intercropping on Yield and Returns in Corn and Sorghum

Abstract

SUMMARYThe yield and gross returns (Rs/ha) were studied over two years in three experiments on intercropping in corn and sorghum. Paired-row planting recorded 8 to 12% and 44% higher yield in corn and sorghum respectively over conventional equidistant planting at the same plant populations. Additional gross returns due to intercropping ranged from 24 to 76% in corn (1975–76 winter) and 4 to 56% in corn and 15 to 75% in sorghum (1976 rainy season) compared to pure crops. Intercropping was beneficial, particularly in the limited cropping periods of this semi-arid tropical zone.