The different multiple cropping systems

An interesting multiple cropping systems from Nigeria which has an element of relay cropping are described by D. J. Andrews. Three types of crops were used - a quick maturing cereal, a long season cereal and a quick maturing, though late-planted legume. Classifying the different systems is sometimes difficult because there can be a gradual transition from one system to another. For example, when the spatial arrangement of mixed cropping is changed, it can become strip cropping can become an annual windbreak system. Mixed cropping is defined as growing more than one species on the same piece of land at the same time, or with a short interval. Row intercropping is a form of mixed cropping where all crops are planted in a fixed pattern of spacing and rows. When the environment is less variable and genotypes are well adapted there are also advantages for mixed cropping since frequently no one species on its own can fully exploit the environment.