Performance of greater yam (Dioscorea alata) and maize (Zea mays) intercropping as influenced by mulching and levels of N-P-K fertilization

A field experiment was conducted for consecutive 3 years (from 2003–04 to 2005–06) at Dumuduma, Bhubaneshwar under rainfed conditions to find out the influence of mulching along with different levels of NPK fertilization on total productivity, energy use efficiency and economics of greater yam (Dioscorea alata L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) intercropping system. Higher total productivity (23.0 tonne/ha), productivity efficiency (109.5 kg/ha/day) and net return (Rs 55,700/) were obtained with the application of 120-39.3–100 kg N-P-K/ha along with mulching. However, higher energy use efficiency (5.07) was found with the application of 100-32.7–83.3 kg N-P-K/ha along with mulching. Mulching along with 120-39.3–100 kg N-P-K/ha registered the highest N, P and K uptake and post-harvest soil nutrients status followed by mulching along with 100-32.7–83.3 kg N-P-K/ha.