Agronomic characteristics, nutritional status and yield of corn intercropped with dwarf pigeon pea in different spatial arrangements of plants

Corn (Zea mays L.) is among the most produced crops in intercropping systems, mainly due to its architecture and ecophysiology. In intercropping systems, crop management should be planned to avoid interspecific competition for production factors such as water, light and nutrients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the agronomic characteristics, nutritional status and grain yield of corn intercropped with dwarf pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L.) in different arrangements of plants. The treatments consisted of different arrangements of dwarf pigeon pea intercropped with corn. In general, the arrangements did not negatively influence the agronomic characteristics and the growth of Poaceae legume. Sowing dwarf pigeon pea in the same rows as corn and in two rows between them increased nitrogen content in corn plants, as well as provided a higher grain yield than other arrangements including the corn monoculture. The evaluated intercropping system is a promising alternative system for a more sustainable agricultural production, with less dependence on synthetic fertilizers.