What is a cover crop?

A cover crop is primarily grown for the benefit of the soil rather than for direct harvest or profit. The main purpose of a cover crop is to improve soil health by preventing soil erosion, enhancing soil fertility, and increasing organic matter. Cover crops can also help with weed suppression, water retention, and nutrient cycling, making them essential for sustainable agricultural practices.

While other crops serve different purposes, such as aesthetic appeal, livestock feed, or seed production, cover crops specifically focus on promoting soil health and ecological balance. This unique role is what differentiates cover crops from other classifications of agricultural crops.