Adaptive research for intercropping: steps towards the transfer of intercrop research findings to farmers' fields

Abstract

The papers in this special issue are mainly about intercropping research with the aim of increasing our understanding of processes determining yields of component crops and overall intercrop productivity. It is necessary to conduct adaptive research which would benefit farmers directly by providing management options available to them in a particular location. This paper outlines a procedure for conducting such adaptive research in intercropping.

Seven steps are identified. They are:

• 1. Problem identification and/or clarification of expected agronomic and economic impact at farmer level.

• 2. Determination of crop responses to the several major limiting factors.

• 3. Choice of crops.

• 4. Determination of competitiveness between component crops under a standard cultural practice.

• 5. Adjustment of competitiveness of component crops by agronomic methods.

• 6. Choice of cultivars.

• 7. Evaluation of a new intercropping system, or new components, in the farmers' fields.