Comparison of native maize and squash in monoculture and intercropping systems

Abstract

Background: The large amount of native maize available in Mexico can be used in different associations with other crops, such as squash. However, it is necessary to determine whether its productivity is adequate and whether maize germplasm has an influence on it. Objective: To evaluate the yield of different native maize germplasms in monoculture and in intercropping with squash and to determine the most productive system using the Land Equivalent Ratio (LER). Methodology: In 2022, three maize landraces from the Yucatan Peninsula, a commercial hybrid as a control, and a local squash species were studied in Keste, Campeche, Mexico. With the data, Pearson's correlation, analysis of variance, Tukey's multiple mean comparison test (α = 0.05), and LER were determined. Results: Maize in monoculture yielded significantly higher (2.35 t ha-1) than in the intercropping system. Nal Xoy and X'mejenal Nal maize landraces had the highest yields, although the hybrid exceeded them. The yield of squash seeds was statistically the same in monoculture and intercropping. In the association of native maize and squash, the type of maize germplasm has a direct impact on yield. The Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) confirmed the different levels of productivity in the two systems and the effects of maize germplasm. Implications: A relationship exists between the production system, maize germplasm, and yield. Conclusion: Maize yield is higher in monoculture than in the intercropping system. The LER could be a helpful coefficient to choose the right maize landrace to be planted in intercropped systems. The identified LER coefficients of 1.6–1.9 indicate that intercropping systems utilise land area more efficiently than monoculture systems.