Relative production efficiency of maize-legume intercroppings at different altitudes

Incessant monocropping of more nutrient consuming maize leads to subsequent land deterioration, gradual food productivity reductions, and challenges the sustainability of local food production systems. Research trials were conducted for three years (2015, 2016 and 2017) to assess the equivalent yield (EY) of maize and relative production efficiency (RPE) of intercropping of maize with four legumes at three different altitudes (1500, 1800 and 2200 MASL) using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three blocks. In 2015, maize was intercropped with mungbean and fababean using three nitrogen levels (28, 56, 113 kg N ha-1) and in 2016, with mungbean and cowpea using two types of row arrangements (alternate single row, alternate double row). In 2017, maize was intercropped with mungbean and soybean with two types of seeding times, namely, simultaneous and staggered. Monocropping of maize and each of the legumes were also arranged for comparison at each location. Statistical results indicated the differences of EY and RPE among the altitudes, nitrogen doses, row patterns and time of sowing. Values of EY and RPE were greater at 1500 m altitude and for intercropping (maize + legume) established with a nitrogen dose of 113 kg N ha-1 with alternate single row arrangement and staggered sowing. On the basis of RPE, intercropping of maize with mungbean is recommended for cultivation.