EVALUATION OF FIVE PLANT SPECIES AS COVER CROPS IN THE HIGH VALLEYS OF MÉXICO

Abstract

In this study we compared the plant coverage ability and main agronomic characteristics of five plant species in Nonoalco (2250 masl) and Ixayoc (2500 masl) in north eastern State of México. The populations were: Scarlet runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus), two faba bean varieties (Vicia faba, var ‘Purepecha’ and ‘V-35’), common vetch (Vicia sativa), and oat (Avena sativa var ‘Saia’), in an experimental design in random blocks with three replications, in 6 x 4 m experimental plots. The scarlet runner and faba beans were planted in rows, while the vetch and oat were thrown sowed. The main variables evaluated were: percentage of area coverage and plant height, on four dates; biomass production at 70 d and at harvest, and grain yield. The results showed differences among populations in ground coverage and agronomic characteristics. Oat and vetch had the best ground cover in both sites. Oat showed the highest growth in both sites, and vetch had the second best behavior. The ‘Purepecha’ faba bean showed the lowest growth in both sites. The highest production of biomass for all populations in both periods, were obtained in Nonoalco because of its physical-chemical soil characteristics.