Narrow row spacing boosts maize yield in intercropping systems.
The researchers studied how different row spacings in maize-soybean intercropping affect maize yield and dry matter accumulation. They tested various narrow row spacings and found that closer spacing led to higher maize yield and dry matter accumulation. Soybean yield decreased as maize row spacing narrowed, but overall maize-soybean intercropping yield increased with row spacing between 40-50 cm. The best results were seen with a row spacing of 50 cm, which increased kernels per ear and improved dry matter accumulation. Optimal row spacing is crucial for maximizing crop yield potential in intercropping systems.