Corn intercropping boosts watermelon farm yields in Besut

A former military serviceman in Besut has found an innovative way to maximize his farm's productivity by planting corn as an intercrop alongside watermelons. Norul Faraz Hasim, 44, began cultivating both crops simultaneously on his 0.8-hectare plot in August last year, discovering the land's suitability for quick-maturing crops.

This dual-cropping strategy involves planting corn between the watermelon ridges. Hasim noted that both crops have similar maturation periods of approximately 60 days, allowing for efficient land use. "Originally, I only planted watermelons, but I saw there was still space in the middle of the ridges that could be utilized. So I planted corn as an intercrop," he explained.

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Originally, I only planted watermelons, but I saw there was still space in the middle of the ridges that could be utilized. So I planted corn as an intercrop.

The method not only provides supplementary income but also ensures better utilization of the farming area. Hasim undertakes this corn planting twice a year, cultivating around 12,000 stalks each season. He estimates a harvest of about 10,000 ears of corn, with each weighing approximately 250 grams, yielding around 25 metric tons per season, depending on the grade.

This initiative by Hasim demonstrates a practical approach to farming, enhancing output and mitigating risks associated with single-crop cultivation. His farm in Kampung Pondok Paku is now a model for efficient land management and diversified agricultural income.

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This method helps utilize the farm area better.