Description
Living mulches consist of low-growing species, often legumes, strategically managed to coexist with the primary crop.
Explanation
Living mulches in horticultural systems are a sustainable and innovative practice that involve the use of actively growing plants to provide ground cover between primary crops. Unlike traditional mulches, such as straw or plastic, which are inert, living mulches add diverse features to the agricultural landscape. These cover plants serve multiple purposes, including suppressing weeds, improving soil structure, conserving moisture, improving fertility and enhancing biodiversity.
Advantages
• Can reduce annual weed pressure and need for herbicides.
• If grower has equipment already, no need for investment.
• Easy to implement after training.
• Lower pesticide inputs
• Prevent erosion, enhance soil structure, and increase organic matter.
• Reduced need for synthetic fertilisers (legume-based mulch).
Drawbacks
• Living mulches can outcompete the crop if not managed which can lead to significant yield penalties.
• The living mulch can harbour high slug populations in wet autumn months.
• A patchy living mulch (following establishment issues) can lead to an increased weed burden during the season and in the following year.
• The requirement for training and education is high to ensure this system works effectively.
• Equipment might be needed to manage the mulch (ie a more specific drill)
• Time needed to manage mulch (mowing, irrigation).
• Could increase future weed burden if not managed well.
Technical Aspects
Technical readiness
The necessary equipment is currently available, and this method is already in use in various systems.
Ease and efficiency of implementation
Successful implementation requires a strong understanding of the species being sown and how to manage them throughout the season. Proper species selection and management are key to ensuring the living mulch supports rather than competes with the crop.
Need for training and education
A high level of training is needed to implement this system effectively. Farmers must select suitable cultivars and manage them at the right times to avoid unintended competition or future weed issues. Given the variability of this approach across different cropping systems, farmer-to-farmer learning and knowledge exchange events are valuable tools to ensure practical, context-specific advice.
Need for investments
Additional costs include purchasing seed and possibly acquiring new equipment, such as a precision drill suited for mulch systems. For farms new to this approach, initial investment could be significant, and training costs should also be considered.
Policy Recommendations
Policy support includes subsidies for equipment, demonstration activities, and training programs. Encouraging farmer cooperation and knowledge sharing, along with efforts to reduce the cost of mulch seed, will further support adoption.
Social Analysis Color
green
Environmental Analysis Color
green