Agroecological system Milpa Intercropped with Fruit Trees in native communities in State of Mexico

Abstract

The agroecological system Milpa Intercropped with Fruit Trees (MIFT) is a polyculture system.
Maize, milpa species and fruit trees interact in rows perpendicular to the slope of the land to
erosion control. The objective of this work is to show some technical and social advances that
have occurred with the establishment of the MIFT system in Mazahua and Otomí communities
of the State of Mexico. Peasants, students and teachers of the Intercultural University of the
State of Mexico have established three experimental crop plots and two demonstratives in five
communities. The maize-beans association was advantageous because intercropped these
with green tomato or cempaxúchitl the value of land equivalent ratio was 1.6. The highest corn
yields are presented by combining the mineral fertilizer with beef manure (10 Mg ha-1). The
MIFT system is allowing the revitalization of peasant production crop lands. This agroecological
experience strengthens family ties, production, food sovereignty and training for young
students.