Relay Cropping and Mulching with Maize for Chinese Yam Cultivation

To improve land-use and yield of Chinese yam (Dioscorea opposita L.) by relay-cropping maize plants was investigated. In trials, effects of planting an early maturing maize and mulching with maize straws on the field were monitored. The results of the tests showed that (a) the moisture content of the surface soil increased by 26%, porosity by 7%, and organic matters by 17%; (b) there was no significant differences on plant germination time and growth of young seedlings of the yam as compared to control; (c) the number of branches on a yam plant increased approximately 11%, weight of stems and leaves 13%, length of roots 13%, and weight of roots 14%, while number of fine roots increased and roots grown closer to the surface; and, (d) the tuber yield increased approximately 7% with an increase on net income of 1900￥per mu. Thus, relay cropping and mulching were recommended for yam cultivation.