Crop Diversification for Enhanced Productivity in the Southern Laterites of Kerala

Abstract

Background: The key focus of crop diversification is the selection of compatible crops for increasing biodiversity, efficient use of resources and enhancing system productivity. Monocropped coconut gardens provide ample scope for crop diversification through the inclusion of several crops as intercrops. The present study was conducted to assess the feasibility of intercropping maize, finger millet, black gram and green gram in coconut garden. Methods: Field experiments were conducted during two consecutive summer seasons to assess the suitability of maize, finger millet, black gram and green gram as intercrops in coconut garden. Result: The present investigation revealed that maize (cereal) and finger millet (millet) were suitable as intercrops in coconut garden. The adaptability of the tested crops and system productivity were assessed and discussed. On the whole, the nutrient balance sheet revealed the importance of soil test based nutrient management for intercropping in coconut garden.