Difference Between Mixed Cropping and Intercropping

Difference Between Mixed Cropping and Intercropping Overview

Crop refers to a specific type of plant that is extensively cultivated in a designated area for industrial purposes. Crop cultivation follows a specific pattern or method. A cropping system is the sequence and management of crops grown on a specific land over time. Farmers use various cropping systems depending on climatic conditions, land characteristics, and other considerations. Two popular methods are mixed cropping and intercropping. 

 Mixed farming is a cropping system in which two or more crops are grown on the same plot of land. This approach aims to reduce the risk of crop failure due to insufficient rainfall or adverse weather conditions. Intercropping is a cropping technique involving the simultaneous cultivation of two or more crops on the same parcel of land, following a specific row pattern to enhance crop productivity. Typically adopted by small-scale farmers heavily reliant on rainfall for optimal yield, this method is chosen when alternative resources like canals and tube wells are not available. This article provides a detailed overview of the main difference between mixed cropping and intercropping.

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Difference Between Mixed Cropping and Intercropping

Mixed cropping and intercropping are the two most frequently compared cropping systems. Mixed cropping is the cultivation of different types of crops together. In contrast, intercropping is the simultaneous cultivation of two or more crops on the same plot of land in a specific pattern. The table below explains the concepts and difference between mixed cropping and intercropping.

Mixed Cropping

Mixed cropping, also known as polyculture, is an age-old method of growing two or more crops together on the same land to prevent crop loss from unpredictable weather conditions. It minimizes the risk of complete crop failure and offers protection against adverse weather effects. One crop is the primary crop in mixed cropping, while others are subsidiaries. The aim is to obtain products from at least one crop, providing a safety net in case of failure of the main crop. Crops for mixed cropping are selected based on their water and nutrient requirements and their growth and ripening periods. Mixed cropping fosters a diverse ecosystem, supporting various species and habitats for animals and beneficial insects. It often yields higher outputs compared to other cropping patterns. An example is the simultaneous cultivation of wheat and gram. The primary advantages of mixed cropping include:

1. Reduced likelihood of crop failure.
2. Enhancement of soil fertility.
3. Lower susceptibility to pest attacks.
4. Increased crop yield.
5. Effective control of weeds.
6. Generation of substantial income for farmers.

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Intercropping

Intercropping involves cultivating two or more crops on the same land using specific row patterns. It is advantageous for its efficient resource utilization and higher yields than mono-cropping. Intercropping maximises yield by utilizing resources and biological processes that a single crop might not. It is commonly practiced by small-scale farmers reliant on rainwater. Benefits include improved soil fertility, reduced erosion, nutrient provision, and pest control. Common intercropping crops include bajra, soybeans, and maize. The most common advantages of intercropping include:

1. Controlling soil erosion.
2. Additional income generation for farmers.
3. Proper use of time and space.
4. Lower susceptibility to pest and disease attacks.
5. Improving soil fertility.
6. More effective weed control.
7. Efficient use of soil-based nutrients.