Yield and economics of sweet corn (Zea mays) - vegetable intercropping system

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at Jashipur in Orissa during rabi (winter) seasons of 2004-05 and 2005-06 to determine suitable vegetable intercrops for sweet corn (Zea mays L.). Intercropping of pea (Pisum sativum) with sweet corn in the ratio of 2:1 gave highest green cob equivalent yield (17.63 t/ha during 2004-05 and 17.49 t/ ha during 2005-06), maximum net profit (Rs 32889 /ha during 2004-05 and Rs 33587 /ha during 2005-06) and highest benefit: cost ratio (2.6 during 2004-05 and 2.8 during 2005-06). This was followed by the intercropping of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) with sweet corn in the ratio of 2:1. The weight of green cob and number of kernel per cob was negatively affected by presence of intercrops