Performance of maize-bean intercropping assessed through varied spatial arrangements and nutrient phosphorus levels in Tanzania
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Date
2023
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Talenta Publisher
Abstract
Erratic climatic conditions, inherent low fertility and nutrient depletion are among
the most important biophysical constraints of food crops production in semi-arid African
regions. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of different crop spatial arrangements
associated with different levels of Phosphorus on the performance of maize-bean
intercropping in Tanzania. The experiment was laid in a complete randomized design of
factorial-split arrangement and three factors in different levels. Sowing patterns were
randomly assigned to all experimental plots whereas Phosphorus rates were randomly
assigned within a specific sowing pattern one after another. Data were subjected to statistical
analysis using GenStat software of a generalized treatment structure in a randomized design.
Results of the interaction between cropping pattern and the P-rates on beans and maize at a
5% level of significance indicated that grain yield, pods/plant, and biological yield did not
differ significantly (P>0.05) while plant height, leaf area index, and plants per plot differed
significantly (P<0.05). Intercropping affects the growth and development of component
crops depending on the cropping pattern and the nutrients applied. The choice of compatible
crops for an intercropping system should not exempt growth habits of the crops, land size,
light, water fertilizer utilization. and other agronomic practices.
Description
Journal article
Keywords
N2 fixation, Intercropping, Soil fertility