Intercropping for Stable Crop Yields in Variable Conditions

Intercropping improves yield stability under drought and soil variability, reducing yield variation in grain legumes and cereals. In a 3-year study, intercropped oats maintained 86% of sole-crop yield during drought, while sole-cropped peas failed. Nitrogen fertilization reduced barley yield variability. Intercropping enhances economic resilience, especially in organic and low-input systems, by ensuring baseline production during stress. Monitoring yields over three years is recommended for effective implementation.