Performance of Wheat Varieties in Malia Dubia (Melia azedarach L.) Based Agroforestry System in Bundelkhand Region

Abstract

The integration of suitable tree species with crops not only diversifies farm income but also helps in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and erratic rainfall patterns. Successful agroforestry adoption depends largely on choosing the right tree species and understanding their interactions with companion crops. The use of Melia dubia in agroforestry systems is particularly advantageous due to its fast growth, nitrogen-rich leaf litter, and potential for carbon sequestration. The present study was carried out to evaluate the growth and yield performance of different wheat varieties under a Malabar Neem-based agroforestry system in the Bundelkhand region. The experiment was conducted at the Organic Research Farm, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, during the rabi season of 2024. Three varieties of Triticum aestivum (DBW-303, HD-2967, and WH-1105) were sown at varying distances (0–1 m, 1–2 m, and open condition) from the tree base. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using standard procedures to test the significance of treatment effects at 5% level. Observations were recorded on plant height, tillers per plant, spike length, number of grains per spike, 1000-grain weight, and grain yield. Results revealed that the proximity to the tree base negatively impacted wheat growth and yield due to shading effects. DBW-303 recorded the highest performance across both tree proximities and open conditions. Yield and related traits were significantly higher in open conditions, followed by 1–2 m distance, and lowest at 0–1 m. Among the varieties tested, DBW-303 showed the best performance across all parameters, particularly at 1–2 m and in open conditions, making it a suitable candidate for agroforestry in semi-arid regions like Bundelkhand. Proper spatial planning (≥2 m distance from tree base) can help reduce competition and enhance intercrop productivity in Melia dubia based agroforestry systems. This study emphasizes the importance of spatial management in agroforestry systems to optimize intercrop productivity.