Explain the objectives of mixed cropping. How are crops selected for mixed cropping.

The basic objective of mixed cropping is to minimize the risk and insure against the crop failure due to abnormal conditions.

Criteria for the selection of crops for mixed cropping:

(i) The different crops to be grown together are so selected that the products and waste materials from one crop stimulates the growth of the other crop.

(ii) Care is taken to select crops that do not compete with each other for light, nutrients and water.