Work

Crop rotation in the Mediterranean: legumes and cereals

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: NATAE Practice abstract n. 2: Diversity. Working Package 7. A NATAE practice abstract is a summary that describes an agroecological practice that can be used as a valuable resource by farmers, researchers, policy makers, and other stakeholders interested in adopting or promoting agricultural practices that contribute to sustainability, productivity, and competitiveness in the agricultural sector. This document presents crop rotation as a key agroecological practice in Mediterranean cereal systems, with a focus on legume–cereal rotations. It explains how rotations improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, enhance soil structure, reduce erosion, and limit pests and diseases. Legumes play a central role by reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers and optimising water use. The document also highlights common Mediterranean legumes, examples of traditional and diversified rotations in North Africa, and the technical and market challenges associated with more complex agroecological rotations.

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18595354

Authors: International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas, Institut National Agronomique de Tunisie, Institut Agronomique Méditerranéen de Montpellier

Language: English

Topic: Agronomic Practices and Intercropping Systems

Subfield: Agronomy and Crop Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Life on land

Open Access status: green

Funder: European Commission

Award: Fostering agroecology transition in North Africa through multi-actor, evaluation, and networking