Cropping System and Nitrogen Supply Interfere in Sustainability of Maize Production in the Dry Season

Abstract

Diversification in cropping systems can increase production and reduce environmental impacts. Thus, we studied maize production as a function of the cropping system and the nitrogen rates applied as side-dressing. The experimental design involved randomized blocks with four replications in a split-plot scheme. The main plots were maize monoculture; maize intercropped with Congo grass (Urochloa ruziziensis cv. Comum); and maize intercropped with Aruana Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Aruana). The subplots were four nitrogen rates (0; 50; 100 and 150 kg ha−1) applied as side-dressing. The maize and grasses row were fertilized with nitrogen. Maize intercropped with grasses needs an adequate nitrogen supply to be applied as side-dressing.

Keywords

• Aruana Guinea grass
• Congo grass
• diversification practices
• environmental impacts
• intercropping system
• sustainable agriculture