Growth and Yield Response of Corn (Zea may L.) Intercropped with Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This study evaluated the growth, yield, land-use efficiency, and economic profitability of corn (Zea mays L.) intercropped with cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) under varying planting ratios. A field experiment was conducted in Barangay Cabasaran, Marawi City, Philippines, from December 2023 to April 2024 using a randomized complete block design with five treatments and four replications: sole corn, sole cowpea, and corn–cowpea combinations of 1:1, 1:2, and 2:1. Plant growth, reproductive development, yield components, crop yields, land equivalent ratio (LER), and return on investment (ROI) were assessed using field measurements, analysis of variance, and economic calculations. The 1:1 treatment generally produced the most favorable growth and yield outcomes, including reported corn and cowpea yields of 1.95 and 0.97 t/ha, respectively, and the highest ROI (52%). However, its reported LER (0.94), like those of the other intercropping treatments (0.83), remained below 1.0, indicating no demonstrated combined land-use advantage. Thus, the 1:1 arrangement was the most profitable of the tested options, but economic performance did not coincide with superior land-use efficiency. Farmers in similar settings may consider this arrangement while evaluating production costs and field performance; additional trials should compare other crop combinations. Findings are limited to one site, one cropping period, and the tested varieties. The study provides locally relevant evidence for farm decisions and supports SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through evidence on crop productivity, profitability, and resource-use assessment.
Institution: Mindanao State University
Language: English
Subfield: Agronomy and Crop Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7225895262