Summary
This systematic review of European literature (2000–2024) synthesises the multifaceted effects of cover crops on soil quality, demonstrating improvements in physical properties (reduced bulk density, improved aggregation, enhanced water retention), chemical composition (increased organic carbon), and biological function (stimulated fertility and nutrient cycling). The authors acknowledge potential drawbacks including soil desiccation and disease risk, positioning cover crops as nature-based solutions with both benefits and limitations for sustainable agriculture.
Regional applicability
The review focuses explicitly on European research and conditions, making findings directly relevant to United Kingdom farming systems, soil types, and climate contexts. The UK is well represented in European agronomic literature and shares similar temperate climatic and edaphic conditions; however, applicability to specific UK soil types and regional practices would benefit from UK-specific field validation.
Key measures
Soil bulk density, aggregate stability, water retention capacity, soil organic carbon, nutrient losses (nitrogen and phosphorus), biological activity, and soil fertility metrics
Outcomes reported
The review examined physical, chemical, and biological effects of cover crops on soil properties across European research (2000–2024). It synthesised evidence on soil structure, organic matter, nutrient cycling, water retention, and associated risks such as soil desiccation and disease spread.
Topic tags
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