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Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences
Elsevier
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Abstract: |
Multispecies cropping systems contribute to sustainable agriculture with multiple ecosystem services.
Effects of intercropping of various crops with faba beans on growth and yield parameters and disease
severity of root rot, damping off and broomrape were investigated. This study was implemented in the
laboratory, greenhouse and field to investigate the effect of the intercropping systems (fenugreek + faba
bean, lupine + faba bean, garlic + faba bean and sole faba bean). The intercropping systems were com-
bined with the application of arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) and yeast as bio-control agents, com-
pared to chemical application of herbicides (Glyphosate) and fungicides (Rizolex-T50), to control rot
root diseases and broomrape weeds, Orobanche spp., of faba bean plants in vivo and under the naturally
infested field. In vitro, yeast and Rizolex-T50 significantly inhibited mycelial growth of root pathogenic
fungi. Intercropping with garlic and/or application of Rizolex-T, significantly decreased the incidence
and disease index of root rot and damping-off diseases, meanwhile increased percentage of survival
plants. In vivo, intercropping with fenugreek and/or application of Glyphosate, significantly reduced
the number/weight of spikes/plot of broomrapes. Intercropping with fenugreek combined with AMF
application promoted crop growth and significantly increased yield components. The AMF enhanced seed
yield/ha when applied to the intercropping of faba bean + fenugreek and faba bean + garlic, showing the
highest seed yield/ha with 3.722 and 3.568 ton/ha, respectively. Intercropping of faba bean with garlic
integrated with AMF revealed the highest values of LER, 2.45, and net return, 2341 US$/ha. Our results
suggested that using faba bean–garlic intercrop along with AMF inoculation can reduce root rot disease,
damping off and broomrapes, as well as enhance the profitability of Egyptian farmer and sustainable
production.
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