Follow Intercropping Techniques for Successful Farming- Know the Types

Intercropping in agriculture is a farming practice that involves growing two or more crops together in the same field. Previously the application of intercropping could not reap yield due to a lack of skills and knowledge but with time, advanced farming and increased awareness have resulted in overall productivity with increased profitability.

By combining complementary plant species, intercropping promotes biodiversity and prevents pest infestation. This approach provides resilience in agricultural systems, therefore, benefiting farmers and improving their livelihood. Below we have discussed intercropping and its various types in agriculture.

What is Intercropping?

Intercropping in agriculture is a farming technique where multiple crops are cultivated simultaneously in the same field. Unlike monocropping, intercropping involves growing complementary crops together to maximize space and increase crop diversity. Likewise, monocropping species (growing a single crop year after year on the same land) grow together and perennial species (growing one crop at once which does not require replanting) grow together, thereby growing annual and perennial intercropping will offer major benefits. Eg:- Garlic and tomato. This practice offers sustainability and resilience in agricultural systems.

Also Read:- Pomegranate Intercropping- Effective Method to Doubling Farm Income

Types of Intercropping

Below is the curated list of different types of Intercropping practiced in agriculture:-

 Row Cropping: In this method, crops are planted in alternating rows, allowing efficient use of space and facilitating separate management of each crop. A common example is combining cereals like corn and beans with legume crops. Row cropping is an effective technique for nitrogen fixation.

Strip Cropping: It involves planting different crops in adjacent strips or bands. This method helps reduce erosion and conserve soil moisture. One good example is a combination of soybean and alfalfa.

Alley Cropping: Here crops are planted in between rows of trees. This system provides shade, windbreaks, and additional income from tree products while allowing the cultivation of cash crops.

Mixed Intercropping: Different crops are intermixed throughout the field without a specific pattern. This promotes biodiversity and increases productivity. One of the best examples is growing wheat and gram together on the same field.

Relay Cropping: In relay intercropping, a second crop is planted before the first crop is harvested, optimizing land use and extending the growing season, thereby increasing overall productivity. For example, growing cotton and corn together.

Also Read:- Guava Intercropping: Doubling Farmers' Income through Sustainable Agriculture

Trap Cropping: Specific plants are strategically placed to attract pests away from the main crop, reducing damage and the need for chemical interventions. The best example includes growing crops like mustard, marigold, etc.

Guard Cropping: A taller or more competitive crop is grown alongside a main crop to provide protection and to deter pests, therefore, enhancing the overall health and productivity of the primary crop. They mainly act as barriers like sorghum is grown around cotton.

Repellant Intercropping: Certain plants with natural repellant properties are intercropped with the main crop to deter pests and reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides.

Push-Pull Cropping: This method utilizes a combination of repellent plants to push pests away from the main crop and attractive plants to pull pests away, effectively managing pests and improving yields.

Also Read:- Crop Rotation: A Game-Changer for Farmers - Benefits and Effective Implementation