Which of the following options is not a benefit of intercropping?

Options (2), (3) and (4) are benefits of intercropping as in this technique, we grow two crops. Out of the two, one crop is resistant to pests and diseases and is laid in a fixed pattern. It stops pests and diseases from spreading. Therefore, (2) is a benefit of intercropping system. Moreover, returns from both the crops will be better as both of these have different nutrient requirements and do not have to compete for survival. Therefore, (3) is also an advantage. Restriction in spreading of disease (4) will also reduce the risk of damaging the crops. Minimum utilisation of the nutrients supplied is not an advantage as it would lead to the accumulation of mineral ions in the soil. Intercropping ensures maximum utilisation of nutrients because both the crops have different nutrient requirements. If the nutrients are not completely utilised, they are accumulated in the soil and result in the pollution of water resources, destruction of microorganisms and friendly insects, crop susceptibility to disease attack, and acidification or alkalisation of the soil.