Why leguminous plants are grown between two crops?
Leguminous plants have rhizobium bacteria in their root nodules. they convert atmospheric nitrogen into soluble nitrogen compounds which can be used by plants. so farmers grow leguminous plants between two main crops to enrich the soil withnitrogen and to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers.
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Why leguminous plants are grown between two crops?
Leguminous plants have nitrogen fixing bacteria at their root nodules. these bacteria take up atmospheric nitrogen and convert them to nitrous compounds which are useful to plants thus increasing the fertility of the soil. this helps in the growth of other plants grown with the leguminous plants
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Why leguminous plants are grown between two crops?
Benefits of Growing Leguminous Plants Between Two Crops:
Nitrogen Fixation:
Leguminous plants have a unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil with the help of symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules. This process increases the nitrogen content of the soil, benefiting the subsequent crops that are planted after the leguminous plants.
Improves Soil Fertility:
By fixing nitrogen, leguminous plants contribute to improving soil fertility. The increased nitrogen content enhances the availability of this essential nutrient for the following crops, promoting better growth and productivity.
Weed Suppression:
Leguminous plants can help suppress weed growth between two main crops. Their dense foliage and efficient root systems can outcompete weeds for nutrients, sunlight, and water, reducing the need for herbicides and manual weeding.
Prevents Soil Erosion:
The extensive root systems of leguminous plants help in binding the soil particles together, reducing erosion caused by water or wind. By stabilizing the soil structure, they contribute to maintaining soil health and preventing nutrient loss.
Rotational Benefits:
Including leguminous plants in crop rotations helps break the cycle of pests and diseases that may affect continuous planting of the same crop. It diversifies the plant species grown in the field, reducing the risk of buildup of specific pathogens.
Enhances Biodiversity:
Integrating leguminous plants into crop rotations promotes biodiversity in agricultural systems. This diversity supports beneficial insects, microorganisms, and wildlife, contributing to overall ecosystem health.
In conclusion, growing leguminous plants between two crops offers numerous benefits such as nitrogen fixation, improved soil fertility, weed suppression, erosion prevention, rotational advantages, and enhanced biodiversity. This practice can enhance the sustainability and productivity of agricultural systems.
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