Studies on Intercropping of Maize and Pigeonpea Under Rainfed Condition in Northen Transitional Zone of KARNATAKA

A field experiment was conducted during kharif seasons of 2004 and 2005 at the Main Agricultural Research Station, Dharwad (Karnataka) to study the production potential and economic feasibility of intercropping maize and pigeonpea in 1:1, 2:1, 2:2, 3:1 and 4:2 row proportions with 50 and 100% pigeonpea population levels under rainfed condition. Pooled data over two years indicated that intercropping of maize and pigeonpea at 4:2 row ratio with 100:50 population recorded significantly higher maize equivalent yield (8970 kg ha-1), net returns (Rs.36008 ha-1) and B:C ratio (3.25) over sole and other intercropping systems except 2:2 and 3:1 row ratios with 100:50 population of maize and pigeonpea. Though intercropping resulted in significant reduction in the yield of sole crops, it was better compensated by components crops in terms of total yield and income