The Optimization of Maize Intercropped Agroforestry Systems by Changing the Fertilizing Level and Spacing Between Tree Lines

Abstract

Agroforestry is defined as a multifunctional approach to land management that enhances biodiversity and soil health while mitigating environmental impacts compared to intensive agriculture. The efficacy of maize cultivation in agroforestry systems is significantly influenced by nutrient competition. The factors that influence this phenomenon include the dimensions and configuration of the tree rows, as well as the availability of nutrients. This study examined the effect of nitrogen fertilization, tree line spacing, and seasonal changes on the productivity and the leaf spectral characteristics of the intercropped maize (Zea mays L.) within a willow-based agroforestry system in eastern Hungary. The experiment involved the cultivation of maize with two spacings (narrow and wide field strips) and four nitrogen levels (0, 50, 100, and 150 kg N ha−1) across two growing seasons (2023–2024). The results demonstrated that yield-related parameters, including biomass, cob size and weight, and grain weight, exhibited a strong response to nitrogen level and tree line spacing. The reduction in spacing resulted in a decline in maize productivity. However, a high nitrogen input (150 kg N ha−1) partially mitigated this effect in the first growing season. Vegetation indices demonstrated a high degree of sensitivity to annual variations, particularly with regard to tree competition and weather conditions. Multispectral vegetation indices exhibited a heightened responsiveness to environmental and management factors when compared to indices based on visible light (RGB). The findings of this study demonstrate that a combination of optimized tree spacing and optimized nitrogen management fosters productivity while maintaining agroecological sustainability in temperate agroforestry systems.