Diversification of cover crops and use of multifunctional properties to increase soil sustainability,carbon sequestration potential, reduce fertilizer

35BV-KK-21-1-08732-PR001

Edita Karbauskienė

Lietuvos Respublikos žemės ūkio rūmai

Kauno r. sav.

172 441,00 EUR

To introduce innovative technologies for the diversification of cover crops and the use of their multifunctional properties in farms, increasing soil sustainability and carbon sequestration potential, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the need for fertilizers. Also to develop and improve technologies for the cultivation of different species of intercrop plants and their mixtures, to adapt them for more efficient carbon sequestration and use of plant nutrients and to reduce soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions in different crop rotations, soils and farming systems in order to maintain and increase farm profitability and sustainable farming.

Crop farms applying or planning to apply catch crops, agricultural companies, farmers, agricultural consultants, scientists and other participants in the agricultural sector seeking to improve soil condition, increase carbon sequestration, reduce fertilizer demand and greenhouse gas emissions, and implement sustainable crop production technologies.

The project developed and tested innovative technologies for growing diversified cover crops and improving their multifunctional benefits in farming systems. The main outcome is a practical system for using cover crops to enhance soil health, increase organic matter, and improve carbon sequestration potential while reducing the need for mineral fertilizers. Farmers achieved more stable and often higher crop yields, better soil structure, and improved nutrient management. The results showed that diversified cover crops can help control nitrogen processes in soil, reduce fertilizer inputs, and support long-term soil fertility. These practices also contribute to climate-friendly farming by increasing carbon storage and reducing environmental impact. The main recommendation for practitioners is to introduce diversified cover crops adapted to local conditions and integrate them into crop rotation systems. Farmers should consider timing, species selection, and soil conditions to maximize benefits. Demonstration trials confirmed that these technologies can be successfully applied in different farms and regions. By applying these solutions, farmers can reduce costs, improve productivity, and increase resilience to climate variability. The project provides clear practical guidance and proven methods that can be directly implemented in everyday farming practices.

https://www.kaimotinklas.lt/lt/projektai/tarpiniu-paseliu-diversifikavimas-ir-daugiafunkciniu-savybiu-panaudojimas-dirvozemio-tvarumo-ir-anglies-sekvestracijos-potencialo-didinimui-bei-trasu-poreikio-mazinimui