Genotype-plant density considerations in the development of an efficient intercropping system for sorghum

Abstract

Grain yields of sorghum grown in 30-cm-wide paired rows with interpairs space of 60 cm or in 60-cm wide single rows were similar; yields were decreased by only 3% in 90-cm wide single rows. Sorghum yield was reduced by 12% when intercropped with bushy, early-branching, medium-duration pigeon pea cv. Hy-2 and by 7% when intercropped with erect long-duration cv. Hy-3a. Higher total yield and net profit were obtained in a paired-row pattern of sorghum intercropped with pigeon pea at lower density (27 000 plants/ha) than at opt. density (55 000 plants). However, in 60-cm wide rows there was a better expression of pigeon pea yield at the opt. density, which increased total yield and net profit. Wide rows of sorghum are preferred from the crop management point of view