Potential of suitable companion crops and tree species for agroforestry in Jamu and Kashmir himalaya, India

Allelopathic effect of 3-agroforestry tree spp (Salix alba L., Juglans regia L., and Populus ciliata Wall. ex Royle) on germination and seedling growth of 4-crops (Zea mays L., Phaseolus radiata L. Hepper, Cicer arietinum L. and Brassica nigra (L) Koch) was evaluated The aqueous extracts < 5 % concentration of Populus ciliata, stimulated the germination and seedling growth of some crops (Brassica nigra and Zea mays), but > 5% concentration caused inhibition. Salix alba and Juglans regia aqueous extracts significantly inhibited the germination and seedling growth growth of only Cicer arietinum. All test crops were affected at high concentrations of aqueous extracts, while lower concentration of leaf and bark extracts/mulch (Populus ciliata) stimulated the growth of Brassica nigra and Zea mays. The suitability of trees for agroforestry based on laboratory and field trials followed the order: Populus ciliata > Juglans regia > Salix alba and the order of agriculture field crops preference is: Brassica nigra > Zea mays > Phaseolus radiatus > Cicer arietinum.