How to Plant Cover Crops: Soil Health & Erosion Guide

What are cover crops?

Crops planted primarily to manage soil erosion, soil quality, water, weeds, pests, and biodiversity on a farm during fallow periods.

What is green manuring?

Ploughing young, green cover crops back into the soil to decompose, which adds organic carbon and nitrogen to the soil.

Which cover crops fix nitrogen?

Legumes like clover, alfalfa, sunn hemp, cowpeas, and hairy vetch have root nodules that house nitrogen-fixing bacteria.

How do cover crops control weeds?

They grow densely and cover the soil surface, blocking sunlight and outcompeting weed seeds for space and nutrients.

What is cover crop termination?

The process of killing the cover crop (by rolling, mowing, or tilling) before it produces seeds, ensuring it decomposes before cash crops are planted.

Can cover crops improve water infiltration?

Yes, deep-rooted cover crops (like tillage radish) drill into hard soil, opening up tunnels that allow rainwater to drain deeply.

When should cover crops be planted?

Immediately after harvesting your cash crop, during the fallow period before the next major sowing season begins.

What is the difference between cover crops and catch crops?

Cover crops prevent erosion and build soil. Catch crops are planted specifically to absorb (catch) excess fertilizers, preventing them from leaching into groundwater.

Can I harvest cover crops for livestock feed?

Yes, many cover crops (like oats or clover) double as high-quality forage feed for farm cattle, providing dual benefits.

Do cover crops attract pests?

They can host insects, but they also attract beneficial predatory insects (like ladybugs) that protect your main cash crops naturally.

How to Plant Cover Crops to Prevent Soil Erosion and Enrich Nitrogen

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