Effect of planting patterns and weed management practices on weed dynamics and nutrient mining in runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.) + Maize (Zea mays L.) intercropping

Abstract

A field experiment entitled “Planting pattern and weed management in maize (Zea mays L.) + runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus L.) intercropping system” was conducted during the rabi season of 2016-17 at Agronomy Main Research Farm, Bhubaneswar. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with planting patterns in the main plot and weed management practices in the sub plot. ‘Shriram 9220’ maize hybrid and ‘Raikia local’ variety of runnerbean were used as test crops. The study revealed that P4- maize 100% + runner bean 100% in the same row recorded the minimum weed density and dry weight and maximum weed smothering efficiency. While, weed management practices, W3-Pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha + 1 manual weeding also recorded the minimum weed density and dry weight and maximum weed control efficiency. Significantly higher nutrient of content in the maize grain and stover was recorded in maize 100% + runner bean 50% in separate rows among planting patterns and W3-pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha + one manual weeding at 25 DAS among weed management practices. For runner bean, maize 100% + runner bean 100% in same row gave significantly higher pod and haulm nutrient content. However, the maximum uptake of N, P and K was in sole crops of runner bean and maize respectively due to its higher yield.