The aim of this work was to evaluate the different cutting systems, spacing, and sowing densities on the intercropping of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) with soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) in the inter-row, in order to maximize the forage production of the sorghum culture. Two trials were carried out on the agricultural years of 2002/03 and 2003/04 at the experimental area of UFLA (Federal University of Lavras) Campus, in Lavras, MG, on soil classified as dystroferric Red Latosol (Oxisol), cerrado phase. Three cutting systems were used, three spacings, two sowing densities of the sorghum crop and one additional treatment (monoculture of sorghum). The experiment was arranged in randomized blocks of 3x3x2+1 factorial scheme with three replications. The different cutting systems and spacings significantly modified the yields of green mass, dry matter, and crude protein, with emphasis on the second cutting system and the 80 cm inter-row sowing spacing, which reached better performances. The tested densities did not significantly modify the forage yield. The intercropping sorghum-soybean system did not provide a decrease in the graminae forage yield when compared to the monoculture.
Green mass; dry matter; crude protein; Sorghum bicolor; Glycine max
