Peittoviljelmä

Peittoviljelmä, often translated as cover crop or green manure, refers to a system of cultivation where specific plants are grown not for direct harvest but for their benefits to the soil and subsequent crops. These plants are typically sown in the off-season or between main crop rows. The primary purpose of a peittoviljelmä is to improve soil health and fertility.

Commonly used cover crops include legumes like clover and vetch, which fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Other options include grasses, cereals, and brassicas, each offering different advantages. For instance, deep-rooted cover crops can break up compacted soil, improving aeration and drainage. Their foliage also helps to prevent soil erosion by protecting the ground from wind and rain.

When the cover crop reaches a suitable stage of growth, it is usually incorporated back into the soil through plowing or tilling, a process known as green manuring. This decomposition enriches the soil with organic matter, enhancing its structure, water-holding capacity, and microbial activity. Peittoviljelmä can also suppress weeds by outcompeting them for resources and light, and some species can help to control pests and diseases in the soil. The practice is a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture and organic farming methods.