A REVIEW OF THE ROLE OF COVER CROPS IN MITIGATING SOIL HEALTH DEGRADATION AND OTHER CHALLENGES ASSOCIATED WITH MAIZE MONOCULTURE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/jaat.2025.1103.13Keywords:
Cover crop, Maize,, Monoculture,, Soil health,, Soil fertilityAbstract
Maize (Zea mays L.) is a staple crop widely cultivated in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria. However, its predominant cultivation through monoculture systems has contributed significantly to soil health degradation, reduced biodiversity, increased erosion, and heightened pest and disease pressures. These challenges threaten long-term agricultural sustainability and food security. As a response, the integration of cover crops into maize cropping systems has emerged as a promising sustainable agricultural practice. This review examines the role of cover crops in mitigating the negative impacts of maize monoculture, with a focus on improving soil physical, chemical, and biological properties. The paper discusses how different cover crop types—leguminous, non-leguminous, grasses, and brassicas contribute to improved soil structure, enhanced nutrient cycling, increased microbial diversity, and better water retention. The interaction between cover crops and maize is explored, highlighting benefits such as nitrogen fixation and organic matter enrichment, alongside potential challenges like resource competition if not properly managed. Historical and regional perspectives on the use of cover crops in Nigeria and globally are provided, emphasizing traditional practices and modern innovations. The review also identifies research gaps, including the need for long-term studies and better understanding of context-specific responses of cover crops across varying agro-ecological zones. Ultimately, the paper highlights that integrating cover crops into maize production systems can enhance soil health, reduce dependency on chemical inputs, and build resilience against climate variability. The insights provided serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, and farmers aiming to adopt sustainable and ecologically sound farming practices.
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