Effect of Intercropping with Cowpea and Maize with Organic Manure Application on the Physiological Parameters

Abstract

Intercropping involves cultivating two or more crops simultaneously in the same field, optimizing the use of land, water, light, and nutrients for higher yields compared to sole cropping. Organic manures, such as farmyard manure, poultry manure, oilseed cake, vermicompost, and bio-slurry, play a vital role in enhancing soil health by providing essential nutrients and supporting microbial populations. In contrast, excessive use of inorganic fertilizers can lead to environmental degradation. Present study explores the synergistic effects of intercropping and organic manure application on the physiological parameters of maize (Zea mays) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). Agricultural practices like intercropping optimize resource utilization and enhance overall productivity, especially in regions with limited water resources like Mizoram, India. These practices exhibit positive responds when combined with organic manure on soil health and yield attributes on crops. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with ten treatments replicated thrice. The result indicate that plants treated with Maize + Cowpea (2:1) + 50% of RDN (Recommended doses of Nitrogen) through Farm Yard Manure + 50% of RDN through Poultry Manure + Lime (200 kg ha-1), resulted in significantly maximum physiological parameters of the crops.