Advantages of intercropping between pear and Judas tree
Advantages of intercropping between pear and Judas tree
The association between the common pear (Pyrus communis L.) and the Judas tree (Cercis siliquastrum L.) can offer several advantages, both agronomic and ecological, especially in Mediterranean contexts such as Sicily. These are advantages that can be used especially in the agroecological field.
Among the various advantages we remember the following:
1. Soil improvement and natural fertility
Cercis siliquastrum, belonging to the Fabaceae family, has the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil, enriching it naturally. This can promote the growth of the pear tree, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
2. Attraction of pollinators
During the spring flowering, the Judas tree attracts numerous bees and other pollinating insects. Their presence can improve the pollination of the pear tree, increasing fruit production.
3. Ecological and landscape benefits
Cercis siliquastrum provides food and shelter for a variety of insect and bird species. Its spectacular flowering also adds ornamental value to the orchard.
Furthermore, some generalist parasitoids commonly use one or a few preferred hosts at low densities and expand their host range to secondary hosts at high densities. When the use of a secondary host persists at low densities, however, it is interesting to know which nutritional, ecological and behavioural factors are involved. This is particularly interesting if the secondary host becomes a primary host. An interesting example is provided by what happens on the Judas tree (Cercis siliquastrum L.) widespread for ornamental purposes in the Mediterranean basin. This legume can host populations of the predatory psyllid Anthocoris nemoralis, a natural limiter of the pear psylla, as it is attacked by a non-harmful psyllid (Cacopsylla pulchella Löw) that infests the host plant especially in spring. Feeding on this species, the Anthocoridae can complete the first generation on the Judas tree and, at the beginning of the summer, with the exhaustion of the infestations on the legume, the newly emerged adults can disperse in the environment in search of other psyllids (such as the pear psyllids) which, completing several summer generations, guarantees a continuous availability of prey.
It should also be remembered that the flowering buds of Cercis siliquastrum can be processed like capers providing an agricultural product of absolute interest.
4. Environmental compatibility
Both species are suited to Mediterranean climates and prefer well-drained soils. The Judas tree is resistant and adaptable, thriving in different environmental conditions.
For the association of these two plants, it is necessary to ensure an adequate distance between the plants to avoid excessive competition for light and nutrients.
Furthermore, Cercis siliquastrum requires little maintenance, only requiring pruning to remove damaged parts.
In summary, the association between Pyrus communis and Cercis siliquastrum can contribute to a more balanced and productive ecosystem, enhancing both the agronomic and aesthetic aspects of the orchard.