Agronomic and gross margin analysis of an insect pest suppressive broccoli cropping system

The current reliance on insecticides in broccoli production systems has resulted in consumer concerns in relation to chemical residues, quality assurance issues and pest control failures. An alternative to conventional production methods has been shown to reduce insecticide requirements, however the economic feasibility of the new system needs to be considered to facilitate adoption by farmers. Therefore, the agronomic and economic performance of an insect pest suppressive broccoli and cereal rye cover crop system was compared to a broccoli strip crop system and conventional practice (broccoli monoculture). The broccoli cover cropping system resulted in fewer leaves, smaller plants and a slightly reduced yield when compared to the other systems. Strip cropping broccoli with potatoes did not convey any agronomic advantages. Gross margin analysis revealed that on a total system basis, a 2.2% yield improvement or a 7% price premium was required to make the cover crop system perform as well as conventional practice.