2nd year Lecture
Cropping System: It represents cropping pattern used on a farm and their interaction
with farm resources, other enterprises and available technology which determine their
makeup.
Cropping pattern: it is the proportion of area under various crops at a point of time in a
unit area. It indicates yearly sequence and spatial arrangement of crops and fallow in an
area.
Cropping system & pattern
Cropping systems and patterns refer to the types and sequences of crops that are grown on a
farm. They are important in sustainable agriculture as they help to maintain soil fertility,
prevent pests and diseases, and ensure efficient use of resources such as water and nutrients.
Here is a detailed explanation of cropping systems and patterns:
1. Monoculture: In this cropping system, a single crop is grown on the same piece of land
year after year. While this system can result in high yields of a particular crop, it can
lead to soil degradation, pest and disease buildup, and nutrient depletion.
2. Crop rotation: Crop rotation involves growing different crops in a specific sequence
on the same piece of land. This system helps to maintain soil fertility, prevent pest
and disease buildup, and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
For example, a common crop rotation system is corn followed by soybeans, followed
by wheat.
3. Intercropping: This system involves growing two or more crops on the same piece of
land at the same time. Intercropping can help to reduce soil erosion, increase soil
fertility, and provide a diverse range of crops. For example, farmers may grow corn
and beans together, with the beans providing nitrogen to the soil and the corn providing
support for the beans to climb.
4. Relay cropping: In this system, one crop is planted in a field while another is planted
later in the same field, taking advantage of the residual moisture and nutrients from
the previous crop. This system can help to maximize the use of land and resources,
and increase yields.
5. Multiple cropping: This system involves growing two or more crops on the same piece
of land within a single year. This system can increase the productivity of land,
provide a diverse range of crops, and reduce the risk of crop failure due to weather
or pest and disease.
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Cropping patterns are the specific arrangement of crops in a field or farming
system. They include:
1. Strip cropping: This pattern involves planting different crops in strips or bands in a
field. This pattern helps to reduce soil erosion, improve soil fertility, and provide a
diverse range of crops.
2. Contour farming: This pattern involves planting crops across a slope rather than up
and down. This pattern helps to prevent soil erosion and conserve moisture.
3. Terracing: This pattern involves building terraces or steps on a slope to create level
areas for crops. This pattern helps to reduce soil erosion and conserve moisture.
4. Alley cropping: This pattern involves planting rows of trees or shrubs between rows of
crops. This pattern helps to provide shade, reduce soil erosion, and improve soil
fertility.
5. Mixed cropping: This pattern involves planting different crops together in the same
field. This pattern helps to provide a diverse range of crops, reduce soil erosion, and
improve soil fertility.
In conclusion, cropping systems and patterns are important in sustainable agriculture as
they help to maintain soil fertility, prevent pest and disease buildup, and ensure efficient use
of resources. By adopting appropriate cropping systems and patterns, farmers can increase
productivity, improve their livelihoods, and protect the environment.
Multiple cropping systems
Multiple cropping is a type of farming system where two or more crops are grown on the
same piece of land within a single year. This system is popular in areas with favourable
weather conditions and sufficient water resources. Here is a detailed explanation of multiple
cropping systems:
1. Sequential cropping: In this system, crops are grown in sequence, with the next crop
being planted immediately after the previous crop is harvested. For example, farmers
may plant maize in the rainy season and then plant beans immediately after the maize
is harvested.
2. Relay cropping: In this system, one crop is planted in a field while another is
planted later in the same field, taking advantage of the residual moisture and nutrients
from the previous crop. For example, farmers may plant wheat in the fall and then plant
soybeans in the same field in the spring, taking advantage of the residual moisture and
nutrients left by the wheat.
3. Mixed intercropping: In this system, two or more crops are grown together in the same
field at the same time. The crops are selected in such a way that they do not compete
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with each other for resources. For example, farmers may plant maize and beans
together, with the maize providing support for the beans to climb.
4. Strip cropping: In this system, different crops are grown in strips or bands in a field.
This pattern helps to reduce soil erosion, improve soil fertility, and provide a diverse
range of crops. For example, farmers may plant maize and beans in alternating strips.
5. Agroforestry: In this system, trees or shrubs are planted in a field along with crops.
The trees provide shade and help to prevent soil erosion, while the crops provide a
source of income. For example, farmers may plant cocoa trees along with maize or
cassava.
6. Multi-tier cropping: In this system, crops are grown in multiple layers or tiers. For
example, farmers may plant maize on the ground, beans on trellises above the maize,
and sweet potatoes or squash on the ground between the rows of maize.
The benefits of multiple cropping systems include increased productivity, improved soil
fertility, and reduced risk of crop failure due to weather or pest and disease. Additionally,
multiple cropping can provide a diverse range of crops, which can increase food security and
provide a source of income for farmers. However, multiple cropping systems require careful
planning and management, as different crops have different requirements and may compete for
resources if not properly managed.
In conclusion, multiple cropping systems are an important aspect of sustainable agriculture,
providing numerous benefits to farmers and the environment. By adopting appropriate multiple
cropping systems, farmers can increase productivity, improve their livelihoods, and protect the
environment.
Efficient cropping system
An efficient cropping system is one that maximizes productivity while minimizing resource
use and environmental impact. A well-designed cropping system can help farmers achieve
sustainable agriculture, which balances economic, social, and environmental factors. Here is a
detailed explanation of an efficient cropping system:
1. Crop selection: The first step in an efficient cropping system is selecting crops that are
well adapted to the local environment and have a high potential yield. This includes
considering factors such as soil type, climate, water availability, and market
demand.
2. Crop rotation: Crop rotation is an essential component of an efficient cropping system.
This involves alternating different crops in a particular field in a specific sequence to
reduce soil-borne diseases and pests, improve soil fertility, and reduce erosion.
3. Intercropping: Intercropping is a practice in which two or more crops are grown
together in the same field at the same time. This can reduce the risk of crop failure, as
different crops have different growth requirements and can reduce competition for
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resources. Intercropping can also help improve soil fertility, control pests and
diseases, and increase productivity.
4. Conservation tillage: Conservation tillage is a practice that reduces soil disturbance
and helps to maintain soil structure and fertility. This involves minimal or no tillage
of the soil and the use of cover crops or crop residues to protect the soil from
erosion and improve soil health.
5. Use of organic and natural inputs: The use of organic and natural inputs such as
compost, manure, and bio-fertilizers can help maintain soil fertility, reduce
environmental pollution, and improve crop health and productivity.
6. Efficient use of water: Water is a critical resource in agriculture, and efficient use of
water is essential to maintain sustainable cropping systems. Techniques such as drip
irrigation, mulching, and rainwater harvesting can help to conserve water, improve crop
productivity, and reduce soil erosion.
7. Integrated pest management: Integrated pest management (IPM) is an approach that
uses a combination of biological, cultural, and chemical methods to manage pests
and diseases. IPM can help to reduce the use of synthetic pesticides, preserve natural
enemies of pests, and reduce the risk of developing pesticide resistance.
An efficient cropping system is one that optimizes the use of resources, reduces
environmental impact, and maximizes productivity. By adopting sustainable farming
practices such as crop selection, crop rotation, intercropping, conservation tillage, use of
organic and natural inputs, efficient water use, and integrated pest management, farmers
can achieve efficient cropping systems that are economically viable, socially acceptable, and
environmentally sustainable.
Evaluation of Cropping System:
The evaluation of a cropping system is an essential step to determine its efficiency and
effectiveness. There are several methods to evaluate a cropping system, including:
1. Yield: Yield is the most common measure of the success of a cropping system. It is the
amount of crop harvested per unit of land. Comparing the yield of the cropping system
to that of previous years or other farms in the same region can help to determine its
efficiency.
2. Input-output ratio: This is the ratio of the value of the crops produced to the cost of
inputs used, such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and labour. A high input-output ratio
indicates that the cropping system is efficient and economically viable.
3. Resource-use efficiency: This refers to the efficiency of using resources such as water,
nutrients, and labour. Resource-use efficiency can be calculated by dividing the yield
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by the number of resources used. A higher resource-use efficiency indicates that the
cropping system is using resources more efficiently.
4. Soil health: The health of the soil is critical for the success of a cropping system.
Assessing soil health indicators such as organic matter content, pH, and soil structure
can help to evaluate the effectiveness of the cropping system.
5. Environmental impact: The environmental impact of a cropping system is also an
essential factor to consider. Assessing the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and water can
help to determine the environmental impact of the cropping system.
6. Social impact: The social impact of the cropping system should also be evaluated. This
includes factors such as labour requirements, employment opportunities, and
community participation.
The evaluation of a cropping system is essential to determine its efficiency and
effectiveness. By assessing factors such as yield, input-output ratio, resource-use efficiency,
soil health, environmental impact, and social impact, farmers can make informed decisions
to improve their cropping systems and achieve sustainable agriculture.
Allied enterprises & their importance
Allied enterprises, also known as secondary or complementary activities that farmers can
undertake alongside their primary farming operations. These activities are an important
source of income diversification and can provide additional benefits such as nutrient
recycling, pest control, and waste management. Some examples of allied enterprises are:
1. Agroforestry: Agroforestry is the practice of growing trees and crops together on the
same land. It can help to increase biodiversity, provide shade and shelter for livestock,
and improve soil fertility.
2. Horticulture: Horticulture refers to the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and
ornamental plants. Horticulture can be a profitable enterprise for small farmers,
especially those in urban or peri-urban areas.
3. Apiculture: Apiculture or beekeeping is the management of honeybee colonies for
honey production, pollination, and other products such as beeswax, royal jelly, and
propolis.
4. Fishery: Fishery involves the breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish and other aquatic
animals. It can provide an additional source of protein and income for farmers.
5. Dairy: Dairy farming involves the rearing of cattle or other milk-producing animals for
milk, butter, cheese, and other dairy products.
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6. Poultry: Poultry farming involves the raising of domesticated birds such as chickens,
ducks, and turkeys for meat, eggs, and feathers.
7. Vermicomposting: Vermicomposting is the process of composting organic waste using
earthworms. It can help to reduce waste, improve soil fertility, and provide an additional
source of income for farmers.
8. Renewable energy: Farmers can also generate energy from renewable sources such as
solar, wind, or biomass. This can reduce their dependence on non-renewable energy
sources and provide an additional source of income.
In conclusion, allied enterprises can provide an additional source of income, improve soil
fertility, and increase biodiversity on farms. Farmers should evaluate their local conditions,
resources, and market demand before choosing an enterprise to ensure its success and
profitability.
Importance
Allied enterprises, or secondary activities, are important for several reasons:
1. Diversification of income: One of the primary benefits of allied enterprises is that they
provide an additional source of income for farmers. This can be particularly important
in areas where agricultural production is subject to weather or market fluctuations.
2. Improved soil fertility: Some allied enterprises, such as agroforestry and
vermicomposting, can improve soil fertility and reduce soil erosion. This can improve
the productivity of agricultural crops and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers.
3. Pest management: Some allied enterprises, such as beekeeping and fishery, can help
to control pests and diseases in agricultural crops. For example, bees can pollinate crops
and help to control insect pests, while fish can eat mosquito larvae and other insects.
4. Nutrient cycling: Allied enterprises such as dairy and poultry farming can help to
recycle nutrients in the farming system. Manure from livestock can be used as fertilizer
for crops, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and improving soil health.
5. Increased biodiversity: Allied enterprises can help to increase biodiversity on farms
by providing habitats for different plant and animal species. This can improve the
resilience of the farming system and provide additional benefits such as pollination and
natural pest control.
6. Energy generation: Renewable energy enterprises such as solar or wind power can
help farmers to generate energy on their farms, reducing their dependence on non-
renewable energy sources and reducing their carbon footprint.
Allied enterprises are important for their ability to diversify income, improve soil fertility,
manage pests, recycle nutrients, increase biodiversity, and generate renewable energy. By
integrating these enterprises into their farming systems, farmers can create more sustainable
and resilient agricultural practices.
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Tools for determining production & efficiencies in cropping and farming system
There are several tools available for determining production and efficiencies in cropping and
farming systems.
1. Yield monitors: Yield monitors are devices that measure the amount of crop harvested
per unit area. They can be used to track crop yields over time and across different parts
of a field, allowing farmers to identify areas with lower yields and make adjustments to
improve productivity.
2. Soil testing: Soil testing can help farmers to determine the nutrient levels and pH of
their soils, allowing them to make informed decisions about fertilization and soil
amendments. This can improve crop yields and reduce the risk of nutrient imbalances.
3. Crop simulation models: Crop simulation models use data on weather, soil, and crop
management practices to predict crop yields and identify areas for improvement. These
models can help farmers to optimize their crop management strategies and improve
overall productivity.
4. Water use efficiency tools: Water use efficiency tools can help farmers to track their
water use and identify areas for improvement. These tools can also help farmers to
identify irrigation systems and practices that use water more efficiently.
5. Economic analysis tools: Economic analysis tools can help farmers to evaluate the
profitability of different cropping and farming systems. These tools can help farmers to
make informed decisions about crop selection, inputs, and management practices.
6. Remote sensing: Remote sensing technologies can provide valuable information about
crop health and growth. Satellite imagery, for example, can be used to identify areas of
stress or low productivity in a field, allowing farmers to target their management
practices more effectively.
Tools for determining production and efficiencies in cropping and farming systems
include yield monitors, soil testing, crop simulation models, water use efficiency tools,
economic analysis tools, and remote sensing technologies. By using these tools, farmers can
make more informed decisions about their crop and farm management practices, improving
productivity, and sustainability.
