Economic analysis of legume-based intercropping across Canadian Prairies

Abstract

Legume-based intercropping offers a promising strategy because it may improve resource allocation and income stability for growers. Two multi-year intercrop studies were conducted in Swift Current, Melfort (Saskatchewan), Lethbridge (Alberta), and Carman (Manitoba) to assess the financial results of different intercrops, including pea (Pisum sativum L.)–canola (Brassica napus L.), pea–oat (Avena sativa L.), faba bean (Vicia faba L.)–maltbarley (Hordeum distichum L.), malt barley–pea, and corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean (Glycine max L.) under different nitrogen (N) fertilizer rates. Net return (NR), calculated as total revenue minus total costs, was used to compare intercrops with monocrops. Monetary returns varied by location. While pea–canola and pea–oat did poorly in semi-arid Swift Current, intercropping generally matched or outperformed monocrops and maintained income stability. Applying N fertilizer to legume-based intercrops did not enhance NRs, but enabled an 80% reduction in N application compared to monocrops. This resulted in a cost difference of $116 ha−1, with monocrops requiring $132 ha−1 and intercrops only $16 ha−1. Overall, intercropping improved resource use efficiency and income stability, offering farmers a viable approach to sustainable crop production under diverse growing conditions in western Canada.