Interplay of Light Intensity and Nutrients on Ginger Responses Related to Growth, Yield and Quality of Ginger in Various Cropping Systems: A Retrospective Analysis

Ginger is an important crop belonging to the Zingiberaceae family. It is grown for its rhizomes, which are vitally important in the food and spice sectors as well as in the pharmaceutical and perfumery industries as a therapeutic herb. Its cultivation has been greatly expanded in several nations, particularly India, as it is a lucrative crop. The majority of ginger is produced and exported from India. Since ginger can withstand partial shade, it is a good choice for intercropping in several cropping systems, mainly for agroforestry systems. The effect of light intensity, as well as how they interact with nutrients to affect crop performance in terms of growth and development, production and quality is crucial for achieving maximum yield. However, the relationship between the growing environment and nutrient management which affect the elements that govern its growth, development and quality is not well understood. It is crucial to comprehend the proper amount of nutrients to apply in an intercropping system in order to minimise wastage since the intercrop may potentially interact with the main crop for nutrients and other inputs. Therefore, it is worthwhile to undertake the current literature study to learn how ginger responds to the stimulus of nutrients and varying light intensities in diverse cropping systems. From this, it can be inferred that ginger grown under partial shade in various cropping systems, can be a very profitable spice crop with superior yield and quality rhizomes.