p o r C s n o i t a rot
Crop Rotations The growing area is divided into 3 sections: each section being used to grow a defined group of crops; the groups being moved to a different section each year. Reasons for Rotation Growing one crop, on the same land repeatedly can lead to depletion of specific nutrients and declining yield. In addition, associations between pests, diseases and specific host plants can result in the build up of harmful organisms over the years. Crop rotation can break the cycle minimising the damaging effects. Improvement in soil structure can result from alternating deep and shallow rooted plants. Deeper roots help break up and enrich lower soil layers hence improving overall soil quality. Some plants can increase soil nutrient levels e.g. Pea & bean plants have nitrogen fixing bacteria in nodules on the roots. The bacteria absorb nitrogen from the atmosphere, releasing it into the soil, when the plant dies. Leafy green crops i.e. Brassicas will thrive on this extra nitrogen so should follow Legumes in the rotation.
Crop Rotations
www.growyourown.uk.com
Treated with Manure, Compost or Peat
Plot 1 Others Potatoes Onions Celery Leeks Tomatoes Marrows
Plot 1 Legumes Peas Beans Root Crops Carrot, Parsnip
Treated with Manure, Compost or Peat
Plot 1 Brassicas Cabbage Brussels Sprouts Cauliflower Broccoli Turnips
Crop Rotations
Year 1 Fertilisers and Lime Plot 2 Brassicas Cabbage Brussels Sprouts Cauliflower Broccoli Turnips
Year 2 Plot 2 Others Potatoes Onions Celery Leeks Tomatoes Marrows Year 3 Fertilisers and Lime Plot 2 Legumes Peas Beans Root Crops Carrot Parsnip
Fertilisers Plot 3 Legumes Peas Beans Root Crops Carrot, Parsnip
Plot 3 Brassicas Cabbage Brussels Sprouts Cauliflower Broccoli Turnips
Fertilisers Plot 3 Others Potatoes Onions Celery Leeks Tomatoes Marrows
www.growyourown.uk.com
The basic principles of Crop rotation are well founded and the scheme above is one which I have used, with success, for many years. You will find variations and may even make some changes yourself. It is not set in stone. However, I believe there are two very important points to ensure;  Brassicas are grown in a different spot each year  Brassicas follow Legumes If you do not have space for three separate beds; do the best you can. Remain vigilant and if specific yields noticeably decline, or pests and diseases increase, remove that crop for a few years, perhaps growing it in containers.
Crop Rotations
www.growyourown.uk.com