Multi storied cropping system in horticulture - An approach for more crop per unit area of land

Abstract

Monoculture is exceptional, while mixture of species is the rule of nature. Intensive horticultural systems are often based on optimizing the productivity of monoculture. In these system, crop diversity is reduced to one or few species that are generally genetically homogeneous, the planting layout is uniform and symmetrical, external inputs are often supplied in large quantities and monoculture system are widely criticized today for their negative environment impacts. In multi storied cropping system two or more crops of different heights are grown simultaneously on a piece of land in a certain period. A multi storey cropping system accommodates crops of different heights, canopy patterns and root system to maximize use of sunlight, nutrient, sustainable land use and maintain an ecological balance. In this system of cropping, the possibility of more efficient use of resources like sunlight, water, soil and nutrient is leading to increased biological diversity, more crops per unit area and sustainability of production.