Cassava’s adaptability makes it an excellent candidate for intercropping. This article focuses on specific spacing strategies for three common intercrops: maize, beans, and groundnuts.
Cassava and Maize:
Maize, a tall-growing crop, requires careful spacing to prevent shading cassava.
Recommended spacing: Plant maize in single or double rows between cassava rows, ensuring adequate distance to minimize shading.
It is important to know the local maize varieties growth patterns.
Cassava row spacing may need to be widened.
Cassava and Beans:
Beans, a low-growing legume, will be effectively intercropped with cassava.
Recommended spacing: Plant beans in rows between cassava rows, or broadcast them within the cassava rows, maintaining appropriate plant density.
Bean varieties also have different growth patterns, so that also needs to be considered.
Cassava and Groundnuts:
Groundnuts, another valuable legume, thrive in intercropping systems with cassava.
Recommended spacing: Plant groundnuts in rows between cassava rows, or broadcast them, ensuring sufficient space for pod development.
When planting groundnuts, it is important to consider the soil type, and drainage.
General Recommendations:
Maintain adequate spacing to facilitate air circulation and reduce disease risk.
Adjust spacing based on local conditions and crop varieties.
Monitor crop growth and adjust spacing as needed.
Applying these spacing strategies, farmers will optimize the benefits of cassava intercropping and achieve sustainable agricultural production.
