Evaluation of yield and productivity indices of black cumin and fenugreek intercropping under weedy and weed-free conditions.

To study the effects of different intercropping ratios of black cumin and fenugreek on yield, yield components and oil percentage under weedy and weed-free conditions, a factorial experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications at Vali-e-Asr Rafsanjan University in 2015. The treatments included five intercropping ratios (black cumin sole cropping, fenugreek sole cropping, 25% black cumin + 75% fenugreek, 50% black cumin + 50% fenugreek and 75% black cumin + 25% fenugreek) and weed management (with and without weed control). Results showed that yield of both plants were greater in sole cropping treatments, whereas the highest plant height, 1000- seed weight and seed oil were obtained from intercroppings. Intercropping systems had a relative advantage than sole cropping and total relative yield (TRY) was more than 1 in all intercropping ratios. The highest TRY was achieved in 25% black cumin +75% fenugreek (1.55) treatment under weed control conditions. Intercropping caused better weeds control, so that the number and dry weight of weeds was reduced in intercropping treatments. The yield loss due to weeds was 87.2% in sole crop and in 25% black cumin +75% fenugreek, 75% black cumin +25% fenugreek and 50% black cumin +50% fenugreek treatments were 34.8%, 27.1% and 25%, respectively. Overall, the result of this research revealed that while 25% black cumin +75% fenugreek intercropping increased TRY, it also improved weeds control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]