The correct answer is d) All of the above.
Intercropping is a farming practice in which two or more crops are grown together in the same field. This practice has been used for centuries in Kerala, India, and it is still widely practiced today. There are many benefits to intercropping, including:
- Increased crop yields: Intercropping can help to increase crop yields by up to 50%. This is because the different crops can use different resources, such as water and nutrients, and they can also provide each other with shade and protection from pests.
- Reduced soil erosion: Intercropping can help to reduce soil erosion by holding the soil in place. This is because the different crops have different root systems, and they can also help to trap wind and rain.
- Improved soil fertility: Intercropping can help to improve soil fertility by adding organic matter to the soil. This is because the different crops have different root systems, and they can also help to break down organic matter.
- Increased biodiversity: Intercropping can help to increase biodiversity by providing a habitat for different plants and animals. This is because the different crops attract different pollinators and predators, and they can also provide food and shelter for other animals.
In Kerala, intercropping is often used to grow rice and coconut trees together. Rice is a staple food in Kerala, and coconut trees are a source of food, fuel, and building materials. Intercropping these two crops helps to improve soil fertility and reduce soil erosion. It also helps to increase crop yields and provide a habitat for different plants and animals.
In addition to rice and coconut, other crops that are commonly intercropped in Kerala include spices, vegetables, and rubber. Spices such as pepper, ginger, and turmeric are important cash crops in Kerala. Vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and cabbage are also widely grown. Rubber is a major export crop from Kerala. Intercropping these crops helps to improve soil fertility and reduce soil erosion. It also helps to increase crop yields and provide a habitat for different plants and animals.