Legume Cover Crops

Knowledge base

Cover crops are plants grown to benefit the soil and ecosystem rather than for harvest. They improve soil health, prevent erosion, and suppress weeds, among other benefits. Common cover crops include legumes, grasses, and brassicas. They are often planted in the off-season or between cash crops. 

 

Benefits of Cover Crops: 

• Soil Health: Cover crops improve soil structure, increase organic matter, and enhance water infiltration. 
• Erosion Control: They protect soil from wind and water erosion, preventing topsoil loss. 
• Nutrient Management: Cover crops can fix nitrogen (legumes) and prevent nutrient leaching. 
• Weed Suppression: Dense cover crop canopies can shade out weeds and reduce weed pressure. 
• Pest and Disease Control: Some cover crops can help manage pests and diseases in the following crop. 
• Increased Biodiversity: Cover crops can provide habitat and food for beneficial insects and other wildlife.

 

Cover cropping is a key practice in sustainable agriculture, contributing to healthier soils, reduced reliance on synthetic inputs, and improved overall farm resilience.