Overview of intercropping practices in Europe (ReMIX Practice abstract)

Outcome In 11 different pedoclimatic regions, lots of mixed cropping techniques have aimed for a diversity of targets, like improved feed or food quality, weed suppression or yield stability. Practical recommendations - The companion crop can be sown in advance or with the main crop. - The seed can be broadcasted or drilled as a mixture, or in alternate rows, with the same or different depth. Consider lowering the drilling rate of the cereal; it’s a strong competitor. - Choose varieties with a synchronous ripeness. - Crop rows should match mechanical weed control. Chemical control is a challenge. - The combine harvester must be adjusted to minimize threshing loss and damage to the pulse grains. - Faba bean or peas mixed with a cereal is an example of an intercropping mixture that produces mixed grain feed. It can also be harvested as a protein rich green roughage. - The density of both crops will adapt to the growing conditions. Consider a variable product composition and protein content. - Protein rich wheat is interesting for (artisan) bakers. Also, a composed wheat-faba bean flour is suitable for bread baking! Practical testing/ Farmers’ experiences Wheat-faba bean or peas mixture controls weeds well and provides a good nitrogen use. Cereal-lentils mixtures were not always successful regarding harvestability and weed suppression. Sorting costs for mixed grains by a rotary cleaner, vibratory separator, gravity separator and optical sorter are estimated at 11, 11, 45 and 67 € per tonne per pass, respectively.