Effect of Different Legume-Based Intercropping Systems on Vegetative and Phenological Attributes of Maize (Zea mays L.)

Abstract

Maize-based intercropping offers a sustainable approach to improving maize productivity by enhancing resource-use efficiency and crop performance. A two-year field experiment (2024-2025) was conducted to evaluate the effect of ten maize-based intercropping systems on the growth and phenological development of maize under a randomised block design. Significant differences were observed among treatments for all measured parameters. The maize + cowpea + marigold system (T10) consistently recorded the highest plant height (224.9 cm), leaf area index (4.34), stem diameter (2.85 cm), dry matter accumulation (180.0 g plant-1), crop growth rate (33.47 g m-2 day-1), relative growth rate (0.035 g g-1 day-1), and SPAD chlorophyll index (55.8), while sole maize recorded the lowest values. The same treatment also accelerated crop phenology, resulting in earlier tasselling (54.6 days), silking (57.3 days), and physiological maturity (109.2 days). Improved crop performance under T10 was associated with better utilisation of light, water, and nutrients, leading to enhanced vegetative growth and timely reproductive development. Overall, the maize + cowpea + marigold intercropping system proved to be the most effective strategy for improving maize growth and developmental efficiency, highlighting its potential as a sustainable alternative to sole maize cultivation.