Fine-Tuning N Fertilization for Forage and Grain Production of Barley–Field Bean Intercropping in Mediterranean Environments

Optimizing the productivity and efficiency of cereal–legume intercropping through exploiting differences in nitrogen (N) acquisition two crops is crucial Mediterranean areas. A two-year field study was conducted Central Italy to determine how N fertilization rate affected forage grain production as well a barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) bean (Vicia faba L. var minor) intercrop. Crops were grown monocrops or intercropped alternate rows an additive design fertilized with five rates from 0 200 kg ha−1. Forage determined both at heading early dough, while yield assessed full ripening. Besides, land equivalent ratio, competitive aggressivity index calculated. Consistently between years, results highlighted that can be sustainable cropping system because indices improved. Anyway, 150 ha−1, lower than sole crops, due higher interspecific competition. We concluded optimal depends on farmer’s objective terms targeted proportion cereal legume harvest.