Management of Cover Crop Intercropping for Live Mulch on Plant Productivity and Growth Resources: A Review

Cover crops are a valuable tool for improving resources use, soil health, and productivity. However, the effects of intercropping cover crops as live mulches with cash crops can vary depending on the species, management practices, and environmental conditions. This study reviewed the literature on cover crop intercropping and identified key factors to consider for improved plant productivity and resources use when managing these cropping systems. Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar were used to search for literature on managing cover crop intercropping as live mulches. Research has shown that annual cover crops are typically used in annual field crop systems, while perennial cover crops are typically used in orchards and vineyards. The effects of intercropping annual or perennial cover crops in vineyards, orchards, and field crop systems can vary from positive to negative, depending on the climate, soil, management, and production system. Therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all management strategy. However, there are some key factors that should be considered when managing cover crops, such as: compatibility, intercropping time, planting density, and termination time. The benefits of appropriate cover crop management include: extended growing season, increased soil fertility, resource use optimization, and increased biomass productivity. Cover crop intercropping can be a successful way to improve resource use, soil health and productivity, but it is important to carefully consider the specific crop and management practices to ensure success. Therefore, future research should optimize cover crop intercropping time and planting density in maize-based rainwater harvesting systems on productivity and resource use.