Must sowing density of intercropping be half of sole crop density for good performance?

Optimal sowing density in cereal-legume intercropping varies by species, soil, climate, farming system, and management practices. Legumes provide high protein, cereals show tillering and compensatory growth, but cereals may suppress legumes. For central Europe, recommendations are 80 % of sole crop rates for legumes and 40 % for cereals. Farmers should conduct small-scale, multi-year trials to determine effective sowing density. The ReMIX project, involving the University of Hohenheim, CIRAD, RUC, and Organic Europe, supports research and practical guidance to achieve yields exceeding sole crop averages while maintaining ecological balance.