Alternate cotton-peanut intercropping: a new approach to increasing productivity and minimizing environmental impact

Recent publications have highlighted the development of an alternate cotton-peanut intercropping as a novel strategy to enhance agricultural productivity. In this article, we provide an overview of the progress made in the alternate cotton-peanut intercropping, specifically focusing on its yield benefits, environmental impacts, and the underlying mechanisms. In addition, we advocate for future investigations into the selection or development of appropriate crop varieties and agricultural equipment, pest management options, and the mechanisms of root-canopy interactions. This review is intended to provide a valuable reference for understanding and adopting an alternate intercropping system for sustainable cotton production.