EARLY PERFORMANCE OF <em>FAIDHERBIA</em> <em>ALBIDA</em> INTERCROPPED WITH MAIZE AT GAIRO, MOROGORO, TANZANIA

Abstract

Faidherbia albida (syn. Acada albida) is a native tree species widespread in Africa, with a high potential for agroforestry. The present study was initiated to examine (a) the growth and foliar nutrient status of F. albida trees grown alone, or in association with maize, (b) the grain yield of maize grown alone, or in association with F. albida trees, and (c) the fertility status of soils under F. albida trees grown alone, or in association with maize, or maize alone. Both height and diameter of F. albida trees were significantly reduced by maize in the intercrop. At 36 months after planting, trees grown alone measured 4.0 m, and 3.5 m when intercropped with maize. Corresponding DBH were 5.9 and 4.9 cm respectively. In contrast, foliar N, P, K, and Ca concentrations were slightly higher in trees intercropped with maize, although such differences were not significant. Maize grain yield was significantly reduced by the tree component; and in 1989, a year with normal rain, the maize grain yield in the intercrop was 90% of the sole maize yield. The corresponding yield for 1990, a very dry year, was 64% of the sole maize yield. Selected soil chemical properties were not significantly affected by the presence of F. albida trees in the monoculture or intercrop. Competition for light, soil moisture and nutrients may account for lower tree and maize growth, and reduced maize grain yields when grown together. Further studies on competition mechanisms between F. albida and maize are recommended.