Growth and Productivity of Cauliflower in Aonla Based Multistoried Agroforestry System

Abstract

Fruit tree vegetable-based agroforestry systems (FVAS) are being introduced in highland cropping systems of Bangladesh. This combined production system is applicable against changing climate, ensuring nutritional requirements along with food security, ecological balance, and economic profitability. The present study explored the performance of cauliflower as lower story crop in aonla based multistoried agroforestry system. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replication. The treatments were T1= Aonla + carambola + lemon + dragon fruit + cauliflower, T2= Aonla + dragon fruit + cauliflower, T3= Dragon fruit + cauliflower, T4= Cauliflower in the open field (Control). Among different combinations of agroforestry systems, the highest curd yield of cauliflower (15 t ha-1) was recorded under dragon fruit-based system (T3) whereas most of the morphological parameters were maximum in the aonla + carambola + lemon + dragon fruit-based system (T1). The highest benefit–cost ratio (2.95) was noted in aonla+dragon+cauliflower-based system (T2) followed by dragon fruit based system (T3), while the highest land equivalent ratio (3.78) was calculated in the aonla + carambola + lemon + dragon fruit-based system (T1). This study revealed that, aonla + dragon + cauliflower based agroforestry system showed relatively higher economic returns and maximum land use efficiency in the upland cropping system.

Suitability of Broccoli in Aonla based Multistoried Fruit Production Model

“…The maximum number of leaves in dragon fruit-based agroforestry system (T3) is due to experiencing almost full sunlight (90 %) and very good soil nutrient levels and low competition for resources. Similar result was observed by [23] in eggplant, [24] in radish and [18] in cauliflower.…”

“…Additionally, when a plant is in the shade, it releases the hormone auxin, which causes it to display apical dominance and raise the plant's height so that it can capture more light [20]. Similar result was observed by [21] in cotton, [22] in okra, [13] in dragon fruit, and [18] in cauliflower.…”

“…Due to its extensive canopy cover, the multistory agroforestry system built on an aonla tree was less light-available than an open field. Similar result was found by [18] in cauliflower in aonla based multistoried agroforestry system [19] discovered that the amount of photosynthetically active radiation, which regulates photosynthesis, the production of dry matter, and agricultural productivity, was often lower in taller species.…”

“…21) was found in open field condition (T4) and the lowest SPAD value (55.04) was found in Aonla + Carambola + Lemon + Dragon fruit-based agroforestry system (T1). In shade conditions, plant synthesis more chlorophyll to harvest more sunlight [18].…”

Performance assessment Of Indian Spinach (Basella alba) as an Under Storey Crop in Aonla-Lemon Based Multistoried Agroforestry System Manuscript Draft

“…which would finally decrease the yield. Aonla-based Multistoried Agroforestry System [40], [41]. Besides, yield in cereals is reduced by the shading of almond trees [42].…”