Economics of mixed cropping of cardamom ( Elettaria cardamomum Maton) in arecanut ( Areca catechu L.) gardens

A study carried out for 8 years (1986-87 to 1993-94) on mixed cropping of arecanut (Areca catechu) with cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) in comparison to mono cropping of arecanut indicated that the cost of cultivation was higher (Rs.40,683/ha) in mixed cropping than under mono cropping system (Rs.27,571/ha). The net returns of Rs.1,61,837/ha realised in mixed cropping was 1.56 times higher over mono cropping (Rs.1,03,626/ha). The incremental net gain in mixed cropping was Rs.58,211/ha (56.21 per cent over mono cropping). Net Present Worth and Benefit Cost Ratio were higher by 1.48 and 1.01 times respectively, under mixed cropping compared to mono cropping.