Abstract:
In order to enhance sustainable intensification
of potato-based cropping systems, especially in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), there is a need to investigate the
economic viability of investing in this lucrative venture.
This study evaluated the economic returns under legume
intercropping systems using value/cost ratio (VCR) and
benefit/cost ratio (BCR) under treatments comprising of
potato intercropped with dolichos (Lablab purpureus L.)
(P-D), climbing bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) (P-B) and
garden pea (Pisum sativum L.) (P-G), and a potato pure
stand control (P-S). Across the seasons, tuber yield was
not significantly (p < 0.05) affected by intercropping with
P-D, whereas under P-B and P-G, it decreased by 19%
and 16%, respectively compared to P-S. P-G, P-B and P-D
recorded 6, 7 and 12% higher potato equivalent yield (PEY)
relative to P-S. P-D was the most profitable intercropping
system with VCR of 35 and BCR of 5.1 as compared to
values recorded in P-S of 31 and 5, respectively. Regression
of VCR against PEY resulted in a stronger coefficient (0.98) compared to that of BCR against PEY (0.82) implying that
VCR is a simple tool that could be adopted for economic
returns to investment studies such as potato-legume intercropping systems.
