Evaluation and economics of different intercrops in banana

Abstract

Banana, one of the most important tropical fruits of the world, also called as “Apple of Paradise” because of its antiquity. In India, it is grown in an area of 3.84 lakh hectares with an annual production of 77.9 lakh tonnes (Anon., 1). This contributes to 11.67 per cent of total area and 24.29 per cent of total production of fruit crops in India. In Kerala, it is grown in 72,570 ha with a production of 57,4260 tonnes. Its ability to give high returns within a short time compared to other fruit crops has resulted in its cultivation being taken up by small as well as big farmers. Intercropping is a common practice in banana orchards to check weed growth, improve soil health and to augment the additional income. Cropping intensity as well as crop production can be increased by multiple cropping practices and this has long been recognized as a common practice. Intercropping can provide substantial yield advantages compared with sole cropping (Singh, 9).