Effect of arable crops on the growth of poplar (Populus deltoides) tree in agroforestry system

Abstract

Poplar AY-48 was planted at the density of 1075 trees per hectare and at the spacing of 1.52 x 6.10m and 3.05 x 3.05m under intercropped and pure stand agroforestry systems. Intercropped agroforestry system gave higher diameter (dbh), dbh increment, crown width and wood volume (m3/ha) compared to pure tree stand agroforestry system after 8 years of planting. Intercropping agroforestry system was more economical at the rotation of 4 & 6 years compared to pure poplar stand. The rotation age of 8 years was found to be uneconomical under both the agroforesty systems.