Yield prediction in intercropped versus monocropped citrus orchards

Pooled data analysis for intercropped versus monocropped citrus orchards showed superiority of monocultured (68.5 kg tree−1) over intercropped (51.4 kg tree−1) orchards. But, intercrop specific analysis revealed that citrus orchards with legumes as intercrop (soybean and chickpea), produced significantly (p < 0.05) higher fruit yield (72.2 kg tree−1) compared to orchards without intercrops (68.5 kg tree−1). These legume-based intercropped orchards maintained much higher levels of leaf nutrient (2.35% N, 0.13% P, 2.08% K, 86.5 ppm Fe, 71.1 ppm Mn, 22.2 ppm Cu, and 22.0 ppm Zn) than the orchards without intercrops (2.29% N, 0.13% P, 2.47% K, 79.2 ppm Fe, 63.8 ppm Mn, 21.7 ppm Cu, and 23.2 ppm Zn). Intercrop yield prediction through regression models in relation to leaf nutrient status were further investigated.