Alfalfa and silage maize intercropping provides comparable productivity and profitability with lower environmental impacts than wheat–maize system in the North China plain

2022 
Abstract CONTEXT The sustainability of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) − summer maize (Zea mays L.) rotation (W − M), which is commonly practiced in the North China Plain (NCP), is threatened by severe groundwater deficits and environmental pollution due to excessive nitrogen (N) applications. OBJECTIVE Considering the need for protein-rich forages by local livestock operations and the environmental benefits of growing perennial legumes, we propose that an alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)-based system is worth introducing for field practice in the NCP. METHODS An integrated evaluation was used in this four-year study to compare the agronomic, economic, and environmental performances of the following four cropping patterns: alfalfa monoculture (AA), alfalfa and silage maize intercropping with or without N input which is designed for local climate condition, maize monoculture with or without N input which is much-discussed as a resources-saving substitution and commonly practiced W − M. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS W − M obtained the highest aboveground dry matter (DM) productivity (P  SIGNIFICANCE Alfalfa and silage maize intercropping with an appropriate N input, which acquired comprehensive performances in terms of productivity, environmental impacts as well as economic profits, would be an optimal alternative system in the NCP.
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