Effects of maize–lablab intercropping on agronomic traits, forage quality, and economic viability

Intercropping maize with lablab can improve forage biomass yield and quality, enhance soil fertility, increase land-use efficiency, and provide economic benefits for farmers. This study evaluated the effects of intercropping maize (Zea mays L.) and lablab (Lablab purpureus L.) on agronomic performance, nutritional quality, and economic viability. A randomized complete block design with a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement, comprising two maturity stages (milk and dough) and four cropping patterns (sole maize, sole lablab, 1:1 and 2:1 maize–lablab intercrops), was used. Data were collected on morphological and yield traits, chemical composition, and economic performance. Maize plant height (PH) was significantly higher in the 2:1 intercropping system (2.19 ± 0.11 m) than in sole maize (1.87 ± 0.10 m). Height of lablab did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) between intercropping and sole cropping. Both maize and lablab crops produced higher dry matter when grown alone than when intercropped. Crude protein (CP) content was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in maize–lablab intercrops compared with sole maize, although sole lablab recorded the highest CP. Intercropping also reduced neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) contents in maize. Economic analysis showed that the highest net return was achieved from the 1:1 maize–lablab intercrop harvested at the dough stage. Overall, maize–lablab intercropping enhanced forage biomass yield, improved feed quality, and increased profitability. This, suggest that intercropping maize with lablab can benefit small-scale farmers by improving both dry matter yield and livestock nutrition.