Evaluation of advantages of alfalfa mixed culture with forage grasses

Intercropping or mixed culture is known as one of the oldest models of sustainable systems in agriculture. This method of cultivation provides the opportunity for farmers to benefit from biodiversity, reduces the potential damages caused by pests and diseases and maximize the use of water and soil resources. Alfalfa mixed culture with grasses is more common than their pure cultivation in many countries. For example, the direct use of alfalfa in pasture causes bloating of livestock, while its mixture with grasses eliminates this risk and it provides a balanced and complete diet. Several species of forage grasses such as orchard grass, lolium, festuca, canary grass and smooth brome grass are commonly used in mixed crops, especially with alfalfa. The results of studies conducted in Iran have indicated that land equivalent ratio (LER) and forage yield, as well as, quality are increased in alfalfa-grass mix cultures. Among studied forage grasses, mixed culture of alfalfa with festuca and canary grass provides more suitable forage yield and quality than other grasses.