Maize and sorghum root growth and yield when intercropped with forage grasses

Integrated crop–livestock systems that intercrop forage crops with grain are effective for increasing production and improving nutrient cycling soil health. However, the potential root competition when maize (Zea mays L.) sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] intercropped forages in sandy soils is unknown. The objectives of this study were (a) to evaluate growth characteristics grasses (b) quantify above- belowground biomass a tropical integrated cropping system. Two 3-yr experiments conducted which grasses: guineagrass (Panicum maximum Jacq.), ruzigrass [Urochloa ruziziensis (Germ. & Evrard) Crins], palisade grass brizantha (Hochst ex A. Rich.) R. Webster], or an Urochloa hybrid. Monocropped used as controls. Fine roots (≤3 mm) sampled monocropped at depths 1.0 m. Intercropping resulted 40% greater dry matter than intercropping positive effect low-fertility was because lower competition. On average, increased total by 30 50%, respectively, compared monocropping. In summary, viable option enhance during off-season systems.