Intercropping of lentil (Lens culinaris Medik) with Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) and safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) under dryland conditions

摘要

A field experiment was conducted during (rabi) 1990-91 and 1991-92 in sandy loam soils at Agra to find out the effect of intercropping lentil (Lens culinaris Medik) with Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) and safflower (Carthomus tinctorius L.) on yield advantages and monetary returns under dry land conditions in semi-arid region of central Uttar Pradesh. The yield of lentil increased progressively with number of its rows in intercropping system, intercropping of lentil + Indian mustard recorded higher productivity than sole stand of lentil and intercropping of lentil + safflower. Between intercrops. Indian mustard proved more productive and beneficial than safflower, intercropping of lentil + Indian mustard in 4:2 row arrangement showed the highest lentil equivalent yield (2004 kg ha~(-1)). land equivalent ratio (1.30). area x lime equivalency (1.22), effective yield total (1978 kg ha~(-1)), monetary net returns (Rs. 16.726 ha~(-1)) and benefit cost ratio (4.82). Among sole stands, lentil was most remunerative and safllower the least.