Growth and productivity of fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare Mill.) as influenced by intercropping with fenugreek (Trigonella Foenum-Graecum L.) and sulphur fertilization

The study was carried out during rabi 2013–2014 in 3 times replicated RBD with three intercropping systems (sole fennel, fennel + fenugreek in 1: 1 and 1: 2 row ratios) and four sulphur levels (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg S/ha). The results revealed that fennel in 1: 2 row ratio recorded significantly higher dry matter and yield attributes of fennel as compared to 1: 1 row ratio and sole fennel. Intercropping of fennel in 1: 2 row ratio significantly reduced seed (10.42 q/ha), straw and biological yields of fennel over 1: 1 ratio and sole fennel. The fennel in 1: 1 row ratio could not bring significant variation in growth and yield of fennel as compared to sole fennel. However, when system productivity was compared, intercropping in 1: 1 row ratio registered significantly highest net monetary returns (Rs 126471/ha) and land equivalent ratio (1.45) in comparison to intercropping in 1: 2 ratio and sole fennel. The sulphur at 40 kg/ha significantly increased growth and yield attributes, seed (15.60 q/ha), straw and biological yields and net returns (Rs 100612/ha) of fennel. Application of 40 kg S/ha in fennel intercropping system was found suitable considering input economy as it recorded 42.07 and 13.37% higher seed yield and 60.71 and 17.40% higher net monetary returns over control and application of 20 kg S/ha, respectively.