Economic Performance of dual-purpose oilseed rape under different intercropping systems

Abstract

The study aimed to ascertain the effect of intercropping canola-quality oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) along with its use for dual purposes in central and western plain zones of Punjab during 2020-21. Oilseed rape sown at different row spacing and with different intercrops was laid out in a randomized block design consisting of nine treatments with three replications. Results reveal that a lower number of seeds per siliquae and siliquae per plant was observed in different intercropping systems and cut treatments, leading to lower seed production. Oilseed rape sown at 45 cm row spacing (uncut) observed maximum plant height. A maximum green fodder yield of 8.40 t ha-1 was observed in oilseed rape sown at 22.5 cm row spacing (cutting followed by removal of alternate rows for fodder). Sole uncut treatment of oilseed rape sown at 45 cm row spacing produces maximum seed yield and stover yield. The highest net returns and benefit-cost ratio were observed in oilseed rape sown at 45 cm row spacing (cut) + one row of Indian rape sown simultaneously.