Weed control by intercropping of legumes with maize

Abstract

This work was carried out to verify the effect of intercropping of cover crops with maize (Zea mays L.) in weed control. Eight species of legumes were tested in three stages of crop development: in the sowing, after the first handweeding and after the second handweeding (30 and 55 days after the sowing). No reduction of weed infestation in the first part of crop development by the intercropping of legumes with maize was observed. The intercropping made handweeding difficult, increasing the time spent in this operation. Good control of weeds was obtained with intercropping, in the harvesting and post-harvesting of maize, varying with the species intercropped and time of intercropping.