doorzaaien

Doorzaaien is a Dutch term that translates to "sowing again" or "reseeding." It refers to the practice of sowing seeds in an area where seeds have already been sown or where plants are already growing. This is commonly done in agriculture and horticulture for various reasons.

One primary reason for doorzaaien is to increase the density of a crop or to fill in bare patches that may have occurred due to poor germination or damage. In grassland management, it is often used to improve the quality and yield of pastures. By sowing new seeds into an existing sward, farmers can introduce more nutritious grass varieties or replace older, less productive plants without having to completely re-establish the field. This technique is known as overseeding.

In vegetable gardening, doorzaaien might be employed to ensure a continuous harvest. For example, if a crop like lettuce or radishes is sown in stages, a new batch can be sown shortly after the initial planting to provide a staggered harvest over a longer period. It can also be a method to correct mistakes, such as sowing too thinly, or to compensate for losses due to pests or diseases. The specific timing and method of doorzaaien depend on the crop, the soil conditions, and the desired outcome.