Cover crop

Cover Crop

A Cover Crop (pronounced: /ˈkʌvər krɒp/) is a type of crop that is primarily grown for the purpose of 'covering' and protecting the soil rather than for yield-related purposes.

Etymology

The term 'Cover Crop' originates from the English words 'cover', meaning to place something upon or over, so as to protect or conceal, and 'crop', referring to a cultivated plant that is grown as food, especially a grain, fruit, or vegetable.

Definition

Cover crops are plants that are planted to cover the soil after farmers harvest the main crop. They are primarily used to suppress weeds, manage soil erosion, help build and improve soil fertility and quality, and control diseases and pests. Cover crops are also used in crop rotations to manage soil nutrients and improve crop yield.

Types of Cover Crops

There are several types of cover crops, including but not limited to:

• Grasses: These include crops like rye and oats. They are often used for their quick growth and ability to suppress weeds.
• Legumes: These include crops like clover and vetch. They are often used for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil.
• Brassicas: These include crops like radishes and turnips. They are often used for their ability to break up compacted soil.

Benefits of Cover Crops

Cover crops offer several benefits, including:

• Soil Erosion Control: Cover crops help prevent soil erosion by protecting the soil surface from the impact of rain and wind.
• Weed Suppression: Cover crops compete with weeds for resources, thereby reducing the growth and spread of weeds.
• Soil Fertility Improvement: Cover crops, especially legumes, can fix nitrogen in the soil, thereby improving soil fertility.
• Pest and Disease Control: Some cover crops can suppress pests and diseases by disrupting their life cycles.

Related Terms

• Crop Rotation
• Green Manure
• Soil Conservation
• Sustainable Agriculture

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Cover crop
• Wikipedia's article - Cover crop

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