Organic Intercropping

Organic Intercropping: Boosting Productivity and Sustainability in Canadian Prairies As organic farming continues to grow across Canada, researchers are exploring innovative strategies to improve crop performance and soil health. One such strategy—organic intercropping—is showing promising results in the semiarid regions of the Canadian Prairies.

Legume Intercrops with Oat or Mustard

A two-year study investigated the effects of intercropping legumes (like lentils and field peas) with non-legumes (such as oats and mustard) under organic management. Conducted during drier-than-average conditions, the research revealed that:

• Intercrops outperformed monocultures in terms of grain weight, protein content, and overall productivity.

• Non-legumes thrived in dry conditions, contributing significantly to biomass and yield.

• Weed suppression improved, even under drought stress, suggesting intercropping as a viable alternative to green manure.

• Field peas showed better resilience than lentils when competing with companion crops.

These findings highlight the potential of intercropping to enhance biodiversity, reduce weed pressure, and improve crop quality in organic systems.

Organic Durum Wheat Following Intercrops

Another study focused on the impact of legume intercrops on subsequent durum wheat crops. Researchers found that:

• Durum wheat grown after legume intercrops achieved some of the highest grain yields and biomass levels.

• This rotation strategy supports soil fertility and crop performance, especially in organic systems where synthetic inputs are limited.

• The results reinforce the value of diversified cropping systems for long-term sustainability and productivity.

Key Takeaways

• Organic intercropping can be a powerful tool for resilience in dry climates.

• Strategic crop combinations and seeding ratios are essential for maximizing benefits.

• These studies support the integration of intercropping into organic crop rotations to improve yields, soil health, and weed management.

Supporting Climate-Smart Practices Through OFCAF

The On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF), administered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, provides financial support to farmers adopting practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve climate resilience.

Organic intercropping aligns closely with OFCAF’s goals, particularly in the areas of:

• Nitrogen management: Legume-based intercrops reduce the need for synthetic nitrogen inputs.

• Cover cropping and soil health: Intercropping enhances soil structure and microbial activity.

• Rotational diversity: Promotes long-term sustainability and carbon sequestration.

By integrating intercropping into their operations, organic producers can not only improve yields and weed control but also contribute to Canada’s climate goals—while potentially accessing funding through OFCAF to support these transitions.

To know more about the OFCAF program, click here.

Sources: Legume intercrops with oat or mustard in organic cropping systems - Canadian Agronomist

Organic Durum Wheat Productivity and Quality Following Intercrops - Canadian Agronomist