Review Analysis of Cover Crop Strategy for Enhancing Soil Carbon Sequestration and Nutrient Cycle

doi:10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2025-0054

Abstract

Abstract:

Cover crops, as an effective measure of farmland management, have been widely recognized for their positive roles in preventing soil erosion, alleviating soil degradation, enhancing soil quality and reducing the input of pesticides and fertilizers. This paper comprehensively analyzed the effects of cover crops on controlling soil erosion, their impact on soil carbon pools and greenhouse gas emissions, their regulatory effects on soil nutrients and moisture, as well as their effectiveness in controlling pests, diseases and weeds. By reviewing and summarizing current research progress, this paper aimed to provide theoretical support for the improvement of cover crop planting technology and to offer scientific basis for the selection of cover crops and the trade-offs in ecological and environmental benefits. The study found that cover crops reduced the risk of water and wind erosion by improving soil physical properties, increased soil carbon storage, reduced nutrient loss, enhanced water retention capacity, and to some extent suppressed pests, diseases, and weeds. However, the impact of cover crops was complex, and their effects on soil moisture and nutrients needed to be weighed according to specific crop types and planting conditions. This paper emphasized the importance of cover crops in sustainable agricultural development and points out directions for future research.

Key words: cover crop, soil erosion, soil quality, ecosystem services

LI Chenyi, JIA Liguo, QIN Yonglin, LIU Kun, TIAN Huan, SHI Xiaohua. Review Analysis of Cover Crop Strategy for Enhancing Soil Carbon Sequestration and Nutrient Cycle[J]. Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin, 2025, 41(18): 123-129.

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