Abstract

The productivity and compatibility of low cyanide cassava (Manihot esculentaCrantz) intercropped with soybean (Glycine max Merril.) were evaluated in South-eastern Nigeria, in 2002/2003 and 2003/2004 cropping seasons. Significant (P<0.05) variations in growth and yield components of cassava and soybean were evident irrespective of crop varieties. Intercropping low cyanide cassava varieties of sparse to medium branching habits (NR.84292 and Iwa) significantly (P<0.05) improved cassava plant height, number of roots and root yields. Intercropping early maturing soybean variety with low cyanide cassava varieties enhanced cassava yields. Low cyanide cassava variety- NR.84292 and TMS 4(2) 1425 could be intercropped with early maturing soybean variety TGX 1485- 2E with minimal loss of yield in both crops.

Key words: Cassava, cyanide, soybean, intercrop, compatibility.