Agronomic and Economical Assessment of Mixed Cropping of Alfalfa with Annual Forage Crops

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Abstract

To assess agronomic and economical aspects of mixed cropping of alfalfa and annual forage crops a filed experiment was carried out using split plot arrangement in randomized complete block design with three replications, in research field of Seed and Plant Improvement Institute, Karaj, Iran in 2007 and 2008 growing seasons. Experimental treatments included mixed ratio of alfalfa seed with other forage crops (Pesian clover, Crimson clover and Forage rape). These ratios were 100:0, 75:25, 50:50 and 0:100 (alfalfa: forage crop). For agronomic traits, fresh and dry forage yield, analysis of variance and mean comparison were preformed. For economical assessment partial budgeting and breakeven analysis were used. Results showed that there were significant differences among mixed cropping treatments for fresh and dry forage yield. Substitution of 75% Alfalfa + 25% Crimson clover by other mixed cropping treatment was not profitable. Application of 75% Alfalfa + 25% Crimson clover had 14.94 million Iranian rials per hectare net profil which was greater than the other treatments. Breakeven point for selected treatment (75% Alfalfa + 25% Crimson clover) in comparison with sole crop of alfalfa (Second priority treatment) and 75% Alfalfa + 25% Forage rape (Third priority treatment) were estimated 22.8 and 24.8 million Iranian Rials, respectively. Breakeven points of gross income of selected (75% Alfalfa + 25% Crimson clover) in comparison to sole crop of Alfalfa and 75% Alfalfa + 25% Forage rape were 34.6 and 32.7 million Iranian Rials, respectively.

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Seed and Plant Production Journal
Volume 28, Issue 3
September 2012
Pages 331-345

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