The benefits of organic production of medicinal and aromatic plants in intercropping system

Abstract

Organic production of medicinal and aromatic plants is consistent with numerous regulations; hence it is under strict legal control. It implies a production system that does not disturb the naturally consistent balance of ecosystems in which plants are grown, taking into account the preservation of healing properties of derivatives obtained by further processing thereof. This production can be established on virgin lands, or those used for agricultural production but without the application of synthetic chemicals, for a period of at least two years. The main cultivated medicinal and aromatic plants in Serbia are: rosemary, coriander, chamomile, peppermint, lemon balm, valerian, thyme, etc. Weeds are the most serious problem in the organic production system of these plants, while damages caused by diseases are not economically significant. Intercropping in the organic cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants is the simplest and, at the same time, a very efficient method to reduce the occurrence of pests and diseases, since the use of pesticides is not allowed in the organic production system. Plant cultivation in this system, in relation to continuous cropping, contributes to increased biodiversity, better utilisation of natural resources, higher yields of many plants and reduced abundance of weeds and pests. Moreover, it is very important to emphasise that the effects of intercropping on the quality of an agroecosystem and plants themselves are great, which further leads to a more efficient ability of plants to develop resistance to insects and numerous pathogens. Received 25 October 2017 Accepted 7 April 2018 Acta Agriculturae Serbica, Vol. XXIII, 45(2018); 61-76 62