Yield and evaluation indices in maize-lentil intercropping system

In order to evaluate the intercropping indices of maize and lentil, a factorial experiment was conducted during 2012 in Agricultural Station of Islamic Azad University, Tabriz branch, Iran, based on randomized complete block design in 3 replicates. Studied factors were planting dates of lentil: 26th April, 6th May, and 16th May and density rates of lentil: 12.5%, 25%, 37.5%, 50% and 100% of optimum density. The results showed that Land Equivalent Ratio in all intercropped treatments except of planting date of 6th May with 12.5% optimum density was greater than 1. The maximum Relative Value Total (1.42) was obtained from first planting date with 12.5% of lentil density. Considering the importance of Relative Value Total of the product as a economic index in evaluating the intercrop, it is clear that first date of lentil planting (26th April) with 12.5% optimum density intercropped with maize was most advantageous over other mixed treatments.