Performance evaluation of cowpea and Cenchrus setigerus intercropping and nitrogen supplementation through organic and inorganic sources in Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn) based horti- pasture system

Intercropping of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and Cenchrus setigerus in row ratio 2:1 gave higher dry matter yield (3.35 t ha−1) and seed yield of cowpea (1.02 t ha−1) than other row ratios (1:1 and 1:2). Fruit yield of aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn) was maximum when intercropped with legume and grass in 2:1 row ratio (6.42 t ha−1). Maximum organic carbon content, available N and P were observed, when legume and grass were grown in 2:1 row ratio, to the tune of 39.72, 37.87 and 75.43 per cent over initial nutrients content. Maximum economic return of Rs 30 987 ha−1 and benefit: cost ratio (2.21) were obtained under 2:1 row ratio. Application of 50% recommended N through inorganic source along with 25% vermicompost and 25% through sheep manure improved the dry matter yield by 122.35% over 100% inorganic N supplementation. Among the different source of N, C. setigerus seed yield was increased by 20.83% at 50% of recommended N through inorganic source along with 25% vermicompost and 25% through sheep manure (F6) over 100% inorganic N (F1). Similarly, aonla fruit yield plant−1 (52.06 kg) and fruit yield ha−1 (6.64 t ha−1) was higher with application of 50% of recommended N through inorganic source along with 25% vermicompost and 25% through sheep manure.