Root System Interactions of Common Vetch (Vicia Sativa L.) and Triticale (Xtriticosecale Wittmack) Under Intercropping Conditions

Abstract

Intercropping, mixed cropping, and rotation are commonly applied and some of the oldest crop production techniques to improve soil structure and nitrogen status. While rotation takes generally two-season with one triticeae and legume, inter-and mixed cropping takes place within the same season. Among many advantages of legume inter-and mixed cropping, the most important one is the sustainable use of soil resources and reduced input cost. Numerous studies evaluated the effect of inter -and mixed cropping on above-ground interactions, very few investigated below-ground interactions in these systems. This study aimed to investigate common vetch (Vicia sativa) x triticale (Xtriticosecale Wittmack) root system interactions at the seedling stage under intercropping conditions. The study was conducted with a semi-hydroponic plexiglass system. Five different ratios were used to test species level intercommunication and competition. The results suggest that, while triticale significantly affected the development of common vetch roots, common vetch did not affect triticale. Triticale with a fibrous root system was more aggressive on root growth compared to common vetch. It was seen that the most vigorous root system development (for both species) was at doses with higher legume ratios. Our results highlight the importance of below-ground interactions for the selection of best ratios to gain maximum outcome from the intercropping systems