Evaluation of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)-based intercropping system through different approaches under rainfed conditions*

Abstract

A study was conducted during 2004–06 to assess the intercropping of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) with different components through different approaches. The univariate approach of transforming the total productivity in the intercropping systems to yield equivalent of cotton established that the intercropping of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp.], blackgram [Phaseolus mungo (L) Hepper.] or greengram [Phaseolus radiatus (L) Wilczek.] was significantly superior. Bivariate analysis of variance highlighted that the intercropping of two rows of cowpea, greengram or blackgram between uniform rows of 90 cm in cotton as the most highly productive systems. The LERs were more than unity by intercropping with all crops except with sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in uniform row planting. Intercropping cowpea provided high LER of 1.57. The effective land equivalent ratios and staple land equivalent ratios for an array of standardized yield proportions are furnished graphically. The results based on profitability of the intercropping systems were not similar. The relative net returns index showed that the intercropping of sesame, soybean or groundnut are not profitable than the sole crop of cotton.