Growing cover crops in organic arable rotations: Best practices from Denmark

Cover crops improve soil health, reduce erosion and nutrient leaching, conserve water, and suppress weeds in Danish arable farming. Recommended for use after main crops, especially following manure application, they prevent nitrogen loss and enhance sustainability. Key practices include early sowing in August, using nitrogen-fixing species like clover on low-fertility soils, and undersowing in irrigated sandy soils. Timing is critical: delaying sowing of cruciferous cover crops by one day results in ~2 kg N/ha loss. Spring-sown mixes should include clover, not ryegrass, to meet nitrogen needs. Mechanical control of couch-grass is preferred over relying on cover crops. The guide supports sustainable nutrient management and aligns with EU agricultural sustainability goals.