Summary
This systematic review synthesises 38 peer-reviewed studies (2015–2025) following PRISMA guidelines to evaluate cover cropping as a sustainable agricultural practice. The analysis demonstrates that multi-species cover crop mixtures, particularly when managed long-term, increase soil organic carbon by 5–30% and enhance soil quality in 87% of studies, though crop yield benefits are more variable (55% of studies), with context-specific challenges in drought-prone regions. The authors conclude that species diversity and long-term adoption are essential for reliable outcomes, and recommend region-specific policies and agronomic guidelines to optimise climate-smart benefits.
UK applicability
UK arable and mixed farming systems could benefit from cover crop adoption to increase soil carbon and quality, although yield outcomes would be context-dependent and require careful management of termination timing. The emphasis on long-term, multi-species approaches and region-specific guidelines suggests UK farmers would benefit from tailored recommendations suited to temperate maritime conditions and existing rotation practices.
Key measures
Soil organic carbon content (%), soil quality metrics (physical, biological, and microbial indicators), crop yield (tonnes/hectare or equivalent), cover crop species composition, cropping system duration, nutrient cycling efficiency
Outcomes reported
The systematic review assessed the impact of cover cropping on soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation, soil quality indicators, and crop productivity across 38 peer-reviewed field studies published 2015–2025. Multi-species cover crop mixtures managed long-term enhanced SOC by 5–30%, with 87% of studies demonstrating improved soil quality and 55% reporting enhanced yields, although context-dependent yield reductions occurred in drought-prone regions or with poor termination timing.
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