Effects of fertilizer source and intercropping ratios on fenugreek and black cumin: Macronutrients concentration and uptake

In order to effects of fertilizer source and intercropping ratios on macronutrients concentration and uptake of fenugreek and black cumin, a factorial experiment was conducted as randomized complete block design with three replications at Shahrekord University research farm in 2013. Sole cropping of fenugreek (F) and sole cropping of black cumin (B) and three intercropping ratios (F:B 2:1, F:B 1:1, and F:B 1:2) were evaluated as the first factor and three sources of fertilizer (chemical fertilizer, chemical fertilizer: broiler litter as 50:50, and broiler litter) as the second factor. Results indicated that nitrogen and phosphorus concentration of black cumin, and nitrogen uptake of fenugreek increased in intercropping treated with integrated fertilizer, by 79%, 70% and 4%, respectively, compared with monocropping treated with inorganic fertilizers. The highest nitrogen and phosphorous uptake obtained in sole black cumin treated with integrated fertilizer. The greatest nitrogen concentration of fenugreek and concentration and uptake of phosphorus observed in B:F (1:1) treated with inorganic fertilizer and monocropping treated with integrated fertilizer, respectively. The highest concentration and uptake of potassium recorded in sole fenugreek treated with inorganic fertilizer, however the maximum concentration and uptake of potassium in fenugreek achieved in B:F (1:1) treatment and monocropping treated with integrated fertilizer, respectively. These results suggest that, for intercropping sysstems, integrated nutrient management can reducing losses of nitrogen and thus may contribute to the environmental protection.