Crop Rotation
Why do we need crop rotation?
- Beneficial in minimising plant problems.
- Previous crops can benefit following crop.
Here is a basic three year rotation plan:
| Year One | Brassicas, Roots, Legumes |
| Year Two | Roots, Legumes, Brassicas |
| Year Three | Legumes, Brassicas, Roots |
Alternative growing methods:
not everything needs to be grown in the ground, Tubs / Raised beds / Hanging baskets / Growbags / Flower borders are all suitable alternatives.
Vegetable groups:
most vegetables can be divided into specific groups and these are used when planning your crop rotation:
- Brassicas – Cabbages, Brussels Sprouts.
- Roots – Beetroots, Carrots.
- Legumes – Runner beans, Peas, French beans.
- Alliums – Onions, Shallots, Leeks
- Salads – Lettuce, Tomatoes.
- Permanent – Rhubarb, Asparagus, Globe Artichokes.
Potatoes - Alliums can be incorporated within Legumes. Potatoes can be incorporated within Roots.
Nutrient requirements:
Each vegetable group tends to have its own nutritional requirement and the table below indicates the main requirements.
| BRASSICAS: | Lime acidic soils | General-purpose fertilizer before planting | |
| ROOTS: | Don’t add manure | Don’t add lime | General-purpose fertilizer before planting |
| LEGUMES: | Add plenty of well-rotted manure / compost when digging | General-purpose fertilizer before planting |
Continuity:
Again there are specific terms that are associated with crop planning these are:
- Successional growing. Sow same crop at week/fortnightly intervals (Carrots / Lettuce).
- Intercropping: Fast growing crops between slow growers (Lettuce between Brassicas).
- Catch crop: Fast growing crop used in area before a required main crop is ready (Lettuce, Radishes, Spring onions).
You may see reference to these in text box and articles.
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