Types Of Crop Rotation, Principles and Factors

By /

In this blog I will be writing on Types Of Crop rotation, Definition of crop rotation, principles and Factors of crop rotation.

The Meaning Of Crop Rotation

Definition: Crop Rotation is a farming practice where different crops are planted in a specific sequence on the same piece of land over a period of time. This helps improve soil fertility, reduce pests and diseases, and enhance overall crop yield. This system is practice in area where farmland is in short supply.

Types of Crop Rotation

  1. Traditional Types of Crop Rotation: Involves a systematic sequence of different crops, often including legumes, cereals, and root crops, to maintain soil health.
  2. Two-Year Types of Crop Rotation: Alternating between two different crops over a two-year period, providing some diversity without requiring a longer cycle.
  3. Three-Year Types of Crop Rotation: A cycle involving three different crops over three years, offering more variety and benefits for soil health.
  4. Four-Year Rotation: This types of crop rotation Involves a sequence of four different crops over a four-year period, providing extended benefits for soil fertility and pest management.
  5. Cover Crop Rotation: Incorporates cover crops into the rotation, which are grown primarily to improve soil structure and fertility, rather than for direct harvest.
  6. Cash Crop Rotation: This types of Crop Rotation Focuses on the rotation of crops that are economically valuable, aiming to maximize profits while maintaining soil health.

PRINCIPLES OF CROP ROTATION

In order to adopt the principles of crop rotation, the Farmer must first consider the following factors.

  1. Climatic conditions such as rainfall, temperature, humidity and sunlight.
  2. Vegetation of the area.
  3. Soil type.
  4. Soil fertility.
  5. Crops to be planted.
  6. The root system of the crops to be planted.

With this factors in the mind of the farmer he will ensure that the principles which include the following are adhere to:

1. Closely related crops do not follow each other in the same sequence, since such crops will be drawing the same type of nutrient from the soil. example, maize should not be followed by rice or sorghum in the rotation.

2. Deep rooted crops should not follow each other in the same sequence. Therefore deep rooted crops should be followed by shallow rooted crops. for example, yam should be followed by maize.

3. Crops of the same family should not follow each other, since they will be susceptible to the same disease and pests. example: maize wheat, rice, sorghum , millets, etc.

4. Crops planted should be once that are suitable to the climate of the area. For example, three crops should be grown in rainforest zone while crops such as maize, millet, beans in Savannah area. Swamp rice should be restricted to swampy area.

5. Period of fallow should be included in the rotational course, as this will help to republish the soil fertility.

6. During fallow, leguminous crops may be planted for building up more nitrogen.

FACTORS THAT DETERMINE THE ADOPTION OF A CROPPING SYSTEM

  1. Climatic Factors: The local climate influences the choice of crops and cropping systems. Farmers consider temperature, rainfall, and seasonality to select crops that are well-suited to the prevailing weather conditions.
  2. Soil Factors: Soil characteristics such as fertility, texture, and drainage impact crop growth. Farmers choose cropping systems based on soil properties to ensure optimal nutrient levels and water retention for their selected crops.
  3. Economic Factors: Financial considerations plays important role. Farmers evaluate the cost of inputs, market demand for crops, and potential returns when deciding on a cropping system. Economic viability is a key driver of adoption.
  4. Social Factors: Cultural practices, community expectations, and social norms influence cropping choices. Additionally, factors like the availability of labor and cooperation within the community can affect the feasibility of adopting specific cropping systems.
  5. Technology Factors: The level of technological advancements available to farmers, including machinery, irrigation methods, and biotechnological tools, shapes the adoption of cropping systems. Access to modern technology can enhance efficiency and productivity.
Scroll to Top