Fodder productivity and economics of pearlmillet (Pennisetum typhoides) with legumes intercropping under various row proportions

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during the summer seasons of 2007 and 2008 at Sabour to assess the pro- ductivity and economics of intercropping of forage pearlmillet [ Pennisetum typhoides (L.) R. Br. Emend & Stuntz.] with cowpea [ Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.], clusterbean [ Cyamposis tetragonaloba (L.) Taub.] and rice bean [ Vigna umbellata (Thumb) ohwi and ohashi] under 4 row proportions, viz., 1: 1, 1: 2, 2: 1 and 2: 2. Fodder yields of both the component crops were substantially reduced under intercropping system compared with their sole stands. Pooled analysis of 2 years showed that pearlmillet + cowpea (2: 2) recorded significantly higher total green (52.8 t/ha), dry fodder (13.24 t/ha), crude protein yield (1.36 t/ha), as well as net returns (Rs 24,060/ha) compared with the other treatments. The highest land-equivalent ratio (1.42), relative crowding coefficient (6.54) and lowest value of competitive ratio (1.29) also indicated superiority of pearlmillet + cowpea system. Among the component crops, pearlmillet was more competitive and aggressive to legume intercrops. However, maximum aggressivity index (0.55) and competitive ratio (3.42) were obtained with pearlmillet + clusterbean (1: 2). Thus, in- tercropping of pearlmillet and cowpea in 2: 2 row ratio may be adopted for higher fodder productivity, quality and profitability during summer.