In relay intercropping, a second crop is established after the first one has reached its reproductive stage of growth before it is ready for harvesting. In this system the competition between component crops is smaller than in simultaneous intercropping. The second crop planting in relay intercropping is done by hand, in a similar way to the no-tillage system, resulting in better moisture conservation, erosion control and maintenance of soil temperature more suitable than in the sequential cropping. Beyond, the shadow of remained leaves of the first crop reduces growth of weeds during the initial stages of the second crop. In the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, several crops nave potential to participate in relay intercropping system. However, to achieve success in relay intercropping utilization, there are requirements for compatible species and varieties, suitable plant arrangement, adequate date selection for second crop introduction and effective weed control during the first crop.
relay intercropping; system characteristics; management practices; potential crops
