Why Dutch farmers are increasingly using cover crops

Summary

Cover crops are becoming an essential tool for climate-smart farming in the Netherlands, helping farmers improve soil health, water retention, and carbon sequestration and reducing erosion. As part of the ClimateFarmDemo network, Dutch farmer Denis Smith shares his experience with vetch, clover, sunflower, and phacelia.
The advisory companies Farm Plus and Delphi have set up field trials to test advanced cover crop mixtures that optimize nitrogen fixation and soil structure. As farmers face climate challenges and soil degradation, these practices are proving vital for resilient agriculture.