Productivity and energy efficiency indices of diversified maize (Zea mays)-based cropping systems for mid hills of Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during 20102011 to 201314 at Palampur, Himachal Pradesh to find out most productive and energy efficient diversified maize (Zea mays L.)-based cropping systems. The maximum maize grain equivalent yield was recorded in maize (green cob)+asparagus bean (Vigna unguiculata L.)radish (Raphanus sativus L.)onion (Allium cepa L.) (38.8 t/ha) followed by maize (green cob) + french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)pea (Pisum sativum L.)Summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) (28.1 t/ha) and maize (Green cob)broc- coli (Brassica oleracea L.)potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) (25.6 t/ha). The highest total energy input was re- corded in maize (green cob)broccoliPotato (57.03 103 MJ/ha) followed by maize (green cob) + asparagus beanradishonion (49.64 103 MJ/ha) and maize (Green cob) + asparagus beanbroccoliradish (43.95 103 MJ/ha). The highest energy input was added through fertilizers (46.5% to 60.4%) followed by FYM (16.424.9%) and seed (1.4% to 22.9%). The highest energy output was recorded in maize (green cob) + french beanpea summer squash (454.0 103 MJ/ha) and maize (green cob)broccolipotato (376.6 103 MJ/ha). The energy pro- ductivity was also higher in maize (green cob)+french beanpeasummer squash (0.8 kg/MJ) and maize+asparagus beanradishonion (0.8 kg/MJ). The energy use efficiency was at par in maize + french bean peasummer squash (12.2 MJ/ha) and maizewheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.) cropping sys- tem (12.9 MJ/ha), however, specific energy was the highest in maizewheat (3.8 MJ/kg) followed by maize (green cob) + rice bean (Vigna umbellate)cauliflower(Brassica oleracea var. botrytis)buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) (2.7 MJ/kg) cropping system.