mullakünnise

Mullakünnise is a term of Estonian origin that refers to a specific type of agricultural practice and the resulting landscape feature. It is directly translatable to "earth mound" or "soil heap." Historically, mullakünnise was created by farmers through the process of clearing land for cultivation. Large stones and soil were gathered and piled together to form mounds, often at the edges of fields.

These mounds served multiple practical purposes. They acted as a method of land reclamation, removing obstacles that would impede plowing and planting. The stones within the mounds could also be reused for building purposes, such as constructing field boundaries, farm buildings, or even houses. Furthermore, the mounds themselves could retain some soil, allowing for the growth of small shrubs or plants that might not survive in the open field.

Over time, as agricultural practices evolved and land use patterns changed, many mullakünnised have become overgrown with vegetation. They now contribute to the characteristic rural landscape of Estonia, often appearing as humps of earth covered in trees, bushes, or grasses within or around cultivated fields. These features can be indicative of past human activity and represent a visible link to traditional farming methods. In some areas, they are also recognized for their ecological value, providing habitat for various species of insects, birds, and small mammals.