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Evalution of forage yield and protein content of maize and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) in intercropping
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Mahdi Dahmardeh   , Ahmad Ghanbari , Baratali Siahsar , Mahmoud Ramroudi |
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Abstract: (5906 Views) |
| Quality and quantity of forage yield were evaluated in Sistan region in 2008. Experimental treatments were different planting ratios of maize and cowpea in row intercropping. Eight planting ratios of maize and cowpea (100:100, 100:50, 50:100, 50:50, 25:75, 75:25, 100:0 and 0:100 maize and cowpea intercropping) and two harvest times ( milk stage and dough stage of maturity) were studied in factorial arrangements in randomized complete block design with four replications. Dry and fresh forage yield, Land Equivalent Ratio (LER), height of plant, protein yield of maize and cowpea were measured and analyzed. Results showed that experimental treatments had significant effect on fresh and dry forage yields. The highest and the lowest dry yield was obtained in planting ratio of 100% maize + 100% cowpea and 100% cowpea + 0% maize with 32140 kg.ha-1 and 9030 kg.ha-1, respectively. The highest LER was obtained from planting ratio of 100% maize + 100% cowpea with LER = 2.42. Protein yield in intercropping was greater than sole maize crop. Results also showed that intercropping as compared to sole cropping had the highest quantity and quality forage yield, and the best planting ratio was 100% maize + 100% cowpea and harvest at doughy stage. |
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| Keywords: Land Equivalent Ratio, Planting ratio, Harvest time, Protein content, Maize and Cowpea. |
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Full-Text [PDF 165 kb]
(1610 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Scientific & Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2015/02/17 | Accepted: 2015/02/17 | Published: 2015/02/17
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