Potential use of Mediterranean saltbush (Atriplex halimus L.) in alley cropping in the low rainfall-cropping zone of northwest Syria

Abstract

This study was conducted in farmers. fields in northern Syria to determine whether introduction of Mediterranean saltbush (Atriplex halimus L.) in barley fields could increase feed quantity without jeopardizing barley grain production. Seven representative farmers were selected and barley (cv. Arabi Aswad) was planted between the rows of Mediterranean saltbush. Each field has a control selected randomly where only barley was planted. The barley grain yield was increased by 25% when associated with rows of Mediterranean saltbush. There was a significant variation in barley yields with distance from the hedgerows, and no interactions with the site. The soil moisture at a depth of 35.55 cm also showed significant variation with distance from hedgerows.