Estimation of the fertilizer response of maize and bean intercropping using sole crop response equations

Maize (Zea mays L.) and bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are commonly grown in association in eastern and southern Africa. Results from 64-fertilizer response trials conducted in Kenya were used to study the relationship between maize monoculture response to fertilizer nitrogen and phosphorus and the intercrop response. The intercrop was more productive that the monoculture with no fertilizer applied, but overall responses of systems to applied nutrients did not differ. Maize, both in monoculture and intercropped, responded more frequently to applied N than did the intercropped bean. Frequency of response to applied P was similar for both crops and both production systems. The basis was established to estimate maize-bean intercrop fertilizer response using response equations for maize monoculture.