Performance of Melia dubia Under Cymbopogon spp. Based Agroforestry Systems

The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with 15 treatments (land use systems). Maximum height (3.4 m) and diameter (4.06 cm), at intercrop planting was recorded in sole plantation of M. dubia at 4×4 m spacing and at final harvest, it was maximum (7.7 m) in M. dubia planted at 3×3 m spacing. However, maximum DBH (8.24 cm) was recorded in sole plantation spaced at 4×4 m. Height (4.6 m) and DBH (4.42 cm) increment was registered maximum under sole plantation of M. dubia at 3×3 m spacing. Maximum volume (41.25 m³/ha) and biomass increment (17.41 Mg/ha) was recorded in M. dubia (3×3m) sole. The study indicated that there was significant difference in tree height due intercropping of Cymbopogon spp. (silvi-medicinal systems). The maximum height increment was attained under M. dubia (3×3 m) (either sole or silvi-medicinal system). There was significant effect of Cymbopogon intercropping on DBH of M. dubia trees as evident from the increment in height. Minimum growth attributes were in closer spacing of M. dubia (2×2 m). The increment (difference in volume or biomass/tree at intercrop planting and at harvest) in volume and biomass show that intercropping has significant effect on growth and yield of M. dubia.