Explore tens of thousands of sets crafted by our community.
Cover Crops and Soil Benefits
10
Flashcards
0/10
Nitrogen Fixation
Legume cover crops convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants, improving soil fertility.
Soil Erosion Control
Cover crops protect soil from wind and water erosion by shielding the soil surface and stabilizing soil structure.
Water Retention
Cover crops enhance soil's ability to absorb and retain water, leading to better drought resistance.
Weed Suppression
Competition from cover crops can suppress weeds by outcompeting them for sunlight and nutrients.
Disease and Pest Management
Certain cover crops can break pest and disease cycles by interrupting the habitat these organisms require.
Soil Organic Matter
Cover crops contribute to soil organic matter, which improves soil structure and fertility.
Soil Temperature Regulation
Cover crops can moderate soil temperatures, keeping soil warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Biodiversity
Diverse cover crop species can enhance above and below ground biodiversity, encouraging a more resilient system.
Timing for Planting
Cover crops should be planted as soon as the main crop is harvested to maximize soil cover and benefits.
Termination of Cover Crops
Cover crops should be terminated before they set seed to prevent them from becoming weed problems.
© Hypatia.Tech. 2024 All rights reserved.