Cultural Practices 63
4.10.1 Advantage of Intercrops
Papaya orchard should be free from unwanted plants for better growth and develop-
ment. Weeds must be controlled, especially during the initial stages of establishment.
Herbicides, hand-weeding, mulching and deep hoeing are usually recommended to
check weed growth during the first year, but they are costly. Uses of intercrops like
lentil, turmeric and suran to cover inter-row spaces are some of the practical meth-
ods that reduce the need for labour or herbicide spray for control of the weeds.
FIGURE 4.5 (See colour insert.) Papaya on raised bed with intercrops: (a) turnip, (b) lentil
and (c) suran.