Green manure
Green Manure
Green manure (pronunciation: /ɡriːn məˈnjuːr/) is a type of cover crop grown primarily to add nutrients and organic matter to the soil.
Etymology
The term "green manure" originates from the practice of farmers using green, or living, plants to enrich the soil, similar to the use of animal manure.
Definition
Green manure crops are typically grown for a specific period, and then plowed under and incorporated into the soil while they are still green. The green manure process increases the amount of organic matter in the soil, which improves soil structure, increases fertility, and promotes a healthy soil ecosystem.
Types of Green Manure
There are many types of green manure crops, including legumes such as clover and vetch, and non-legumes such as rye and buckwheat. The choice of green manure crop depends on the specific needs of the soil, the climate, and the subsequent crops to be grown.
Benefits
Green manure provides several benefits to the soil and the environment. It improves soil structure, increases soil fertility, reduces soil erosion, and suppresses weeds. It also helps to recycle nutrients in the soil and can reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers.
Related Terms
- Cover crop: A crop grown for the protection and enrichment of the soil.
- Crop rotation: The practice of growing different types of crops in the same area in sequenced seasons.
- Soil fertility: The ability of soil to sustain plant growth.
- Organic farming: A method of farming that avoids the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Green manure
- Wikipedia's article - Green manure
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