Difference Between Mixed Cropping and Intercropping
Basis of comparison |
Mixed cropping |
Intercropping |
---|---|---|
Definition | A technique of cropping in which two or more crops are cultivated together on the same plot of land is referred to as mixed cropping. | When several types of crops are grown together in a specified manner, this method is referred to as intercropping. |
Aim | To reduces the risk of crop failure. | To boost the productivity of crops. |
Planting pattern | Specific planting method is used. | There is no specific method is used. |
Crop life cycle | All crops have same life cycles and maturity times. | Every crop has a different life cycle and different maturity times. |
Seed sowing | The seeds are not planted one after the other. | Many rows of seeds are sowed in a certain arrangement. |
Seeds | They are mixed before sowing. | They are not mixed before sowing. |
Fertilizers and pesticides | Same types of fertilizers and pesticides are used in all crops. | Specific types of fertilizers and pesticides are used for each crop. |
Pest control | Difficult as compared to Intercropping. | Easy as compared to mixed cropping. |
Harvesting | Difficult as compared to Intercropping. | Easy as compared to mixed cropping. |
Threshing | Not possible in mixed cropping. | Possible in intercropping |
Competition between crops | Yes | No |
Conclusion
A cropping system is the percentage of land that is being cultivated for different crops at various times. Major types of cropping system include monocropping, mixed cropping and intercropping. Mixed cropping can be defined as the practice of growing two or more crops on the same piece of land at the same time. The term “intercropping” refers to the practice of simultaneously cultivating two or more crops nearby on the same plot of land using particular row patterns. There are four types of intercropping: Strip, relay, row and alley intercropping. Both cropping systems improves soil fertility, maximize the profit of farmers and saves time and space.
Difference Between Mixed Cropping and Intercropping
A plant is considered to be a crop that is widely gathered for financial gain and is farmed or grown on a big and small scale. Moreover, crops are raised to be traded on the open market. A cropping pattern is the percentage of land that is being cultivated for different crops at various times. Cropping pattern is a dynamic idea that varies throughout time and space. Cropping patterns vary from one area to another. It is influenced by the soils, the quantity and frequency of rain, the amount and slope of the terrain, the topography, the slope, the temperature, and the availability of irrigation water. Cropping systems are of three types:
- Monocropping: Monocropping is the practice of producing only one type of crop at a time on a specific plot of land.
- Mixed cropping: Mixed cropping can be defined as the practice of growing two or more crops on the same piece of land at the same time.
- Intercropping: It refers to the practice of simultaneously cultivating two or more crops nearby on the same plot of land using particular row patterns.