A traditional agricultural practice where arable land is kept free of cash crops for a period, allowing the soil to rest and regenerate organic matter. During this time, the field may be tilled to control weeds or planted with a non-harvested cover crop to prevent erosion and fix nitrogen. This breaks pest and disease cycles while restoring moisture and nutrient levels for future plantings.
We're leaving the north forty fallow this year to help break the nematode cycle in the soil.
Related terms
Crop rotation
The practice of planting different types of crops sequentially on the same plot of land.
Fallow crop
A crop grown on land that is otherwise resting, typically to suppress weeds or improve soil structure before being ploughed under.
Catch
The successful germination and establishment of a newly planted crop.